FlyBus has stated today that a prototype version of its Optare Solo Midibus will start testing soon using a hybrid powertrain that unlike gas-electric or diesel-electric models makes use of a Ricardo Kinergy flywheel as the energy storage medium and a Torotrak continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The system captures the kinetic energy from braking that would otherwise have been lost and turns it into electricity. The CVT transfers energy from the vehicle wheels to the flywheel, spinning it up to speeds of around 60,000rpm. As the vehicle pulls away from rest, the CVT returns energy from the flywheel to the wheels.
“The recovery and reuse of kinetic energy during stop-start drive cycles is a priority for bus operators, not just because of the positive impact on emissions but also because it reduces fuel costs and brake wear,” says John Fuller, Product Leader for Kinetic Energy Recovery Systems (KERS) at Torotrak.
“Electric hybrid systems are expensive, often doubling the transaction cost of a bus. Initial cost estimates suggest that the Flybus system could be available at a fraction of the cost of an electric hybrid, whilst simulation results indicate fuel savings comfortably in excess of 10%. With the completion of the mechanical design and installation phase of the programme, we are now ready to start evaluating the fuel economy benefits on the vehicle itself,” added Fuller.
“The recovery and reuse of kinetic energy during stop-start drive cycles is a priority for bus operators, not just because of the positive impact on emissions but also because it reduces fuel costs and brake wear,” says John Fuller, Product Leader for Kinetic Energy Recovery Systems (KERS) at Torotrak.
“Electric hybrid systems are expensive, often doubling the transaction cost of a bus. Initial cost estimates suggest that the Flybus system could be available at a fraction of the cost of an electric hybrid, whilst simulation results indicate fuel savings comfortably in excess of 10%. With the completion of the mechanical design and installation phase of the programme, we are now ready to start evaluating the fuel economy benefits on the vehicle itself,” added Fuller.
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