Beyond batteries

The reinvention of a 100-year old electrical energy-storage device could transform heavy-duty hybrid drive systems.

During a recent U.S. Army winter Symposium held in Fort Lauderdale, FL, Oshkosh introduced its “future vision for heavy-load-carrying transport.”

The company has been manufacturing all-terrain vehicles for both military and commercial uses since 1917. But while it's generally accepted that for some years to come the majority of future heavy-load-carrying vehicles will continue on a path of moderate conventionality incorporating diesel/mechanical drive systems, Oshkosh's latest HEMTT-LHS (heavy expanded mobility tactical truck) is unique because it features a new hybrid-drive propulsion system. The company believes its technology could change the future design direction for both on- and off-highway applications.