BAE Systems introduces HybriDrive series hybrid system for articulated buses

HybriDrive traction motor. Click to enlarge.

BAE Systems launched its HybriDrive series propulsion system for articulated buses at the American Public Transportation Association Annual Meeting & Expo in New Orleans, La. The HDS 300 system—the latest member of BAE Systems’ HybriDrive family—will support higher capacity buses with gross vehicle weight ratings of up to 63,000 lbs (28,576 kg).

The HDS 300 features the same benefits as its HDS 200 counterpart, now in service in the US and Canada. The integrated hybrid power system maximizes a fleet owner’s operational budget due to its superior efficiency and low maintenance costs. The system can be purchased as a standard package or with electrified accessories which further increase the system’s efficiency by reducing energy demands on the engine.

The HybriDrive Modular Traction System (MTS) in the series hybrid platform comprises a traction motor and a traction generator to provide power to the vehicle. The liquid cooled, high power-to-weight ratio electric traction motor connects directly to a standard drive shaft and rear axle to provide traction power and regenerative braking. The traction motor incorporates a fixed ratio reduction gear, eliminating the need for a gear shifting transmission. This provides shift-free propulsion for the transit bus and provides a noticeably smoother ride for passengers than traditional diesel or parallel hybrid buses.

The traction motor is the sole source of propulsion for the vehicle and is sized accordingly. The combination of the down-sized engine, generator and traction motor occupies an equivalent space claim of a typical engine/transmission unit. This system’s design and packaging makes it easily adaptable to multiple bus models and easy to install. The MTS can be installed in-line T-drive, V-drive, or transverse.

The traction motor in the HDS 300 delivers 230 kW (308 hp) peak from 435–1933 rpm and 180 kW (241 hp) continuous from 53–660 rpm. Torque is 6,750 N·m (4979 lb-ft) peak from 0–145 rpm and 5300 N·m (3909 lb-ft) int. from 0–338 rpm.

Buses equipped with HybriDrive series have travelled more than 300 million miles, prevented more than 280,000 tons of CO₂ emissions, and have saved more than 25 million gallons of diesel fuel.

BAE Systems is working with bus manufacturers New Flyer and Nova Bus to make its HDS 300 hybrid electric propulsion system available to North American bus transit fleets.

Source: Green Car Congress