Cummins Crosspoint subsidiary Crosspoint Kinetics has launched its second-generation parallel-electric hybrid system. The Crosspoint Kinetics S3000 hybrid system is designed for para-transit bus, shuttle bus and package delivery applications.
According to the company, the system interfaces to a vehicle, making it easier to access hybrid advantages including acceleration performance, less fuel consumption, and reduced emissions.
“We have addressed many of the problems with first-generation hybrids, such as expensive batteries, less-than-satisfactory reliability, and complex integration into a vehicle,” said John McNichols, Crosspoint Kinetics product director.
The S3000 deploys ultra-capacitors and offers a design that makes it easy to install and remove and is compatible with gasoline, diesel, propane, and compressed natural gas engines.
“By addressing the inflexibility of first-generation systems, we have made it easier for operators and customers to participate in the greening movement toward alternative fuels,” added McNichols.
The system generates 100% of its own electricity when decelerating or braking and uses that energy for incremental boost when accelerating a vehicle. The company said third-party testing has shown fuel economy increases of between 10 and 30%.
“An operator has full control of how much electricity can be generated, captured, and reused for acceleration. Our system offers a choice of extra acceleration or fuel economy performance depending on how the operator wants to use it,” McNichols said.
The S3000 hybrid uses an advanced electric hybrid motor manufactured by Nidec Corp.; ultra-capacitors supplied by Maxwell Technologies; and the control computer and inverter provided by ZBB Energy.
“We have successfully completed system-life, performance, reliability, and FTA/Altoona testing. We are confident our second-generation hybrid will perform and bring many benefits to the communities where they operate,” McNichols said.
Full production is expected during fourth quarter of 2013.
