Shared Technology/Shared Cost, the Evaluation of the Allison EP-50 Electric Drive for Military and Commercial Vehicles

In order to improve fuel efficiency, reduce the logistical footprint, generate power, and lighten vehicles the Army must transform its fleet of vehicles. One path is using hybrid electric vehicles. The National Automotive Center (NAC) and Electricore Inc. are currently engaged in a cooperative development program to demonstrate the potential of Allison Transmission's second-generation parallel hybrid electric drive EP-50 System in heavy vehicles. The objective of this particular program is to demonstrate the suitability of the EP-50 system, designed for inter-city bus applications, in a Light Armored Vehicle-III/ Interim Armored Vehicle (LAV III) and a Mack refuse hauler.

This paper will describe how hybrid electric propulsion is a dual use technology, benefiting both the government and commercial industries. The US Army is in need of technologies that decrease emissions, increase fuel efficiency, and decrease operating costs, while at the same time, the commercial sectors are looking for new platforms and ways to reduce production costs. A joint venture between government and industry can satisfy both their needs and reduce overall costs.