The Development of Electric Transport Vehicles of Self-Supporting Plastic Sandwich Construction

The development of an innovative electric transport vehicle of self-supporting plastic sandwich construction (FRP/PUR sandwich) is described. The specific advantages inherent in this plastics technology as applied to electric transport vehicles are illustrated. A short survey of the production technology as well as of the materials behavior is given.

The propulsion and control concept in addition to the design of the source of energy are clarified. The test results obtained with the prototype, undergoing testing since one year, are given, and an automated data processing system for evaluating the test results described.

The battery change technique is outlined and the important features discussed.

Vehicle and operating costs of the innovative electric transport vehicle are indicated in brief.