PHEV conversion company HPEV shipping sub-assembles and components for Ford F-350 class 3 truck

HPEV, Inc., a plug-in hybrid conversion company, says it ia delivering sub-assemblies and components for commercializing its parallel hybrid conversion system on a Ford 350 class 3 truck. Final assembly will begin shortly with a target date for completion of the introductory unit at the end of the third calendar quarter.

The HPEV system uses lead acid batteries to power an electric motor drive which in turn powers a traction motor attached to the rear axle of a vehicle. The conversion process itself entails the change-out of the rear axle; the engine and transmission are untouched.

A traction motor containing HPEV heat pipe technology and a motor drive are attached to the frame and connected to the rear axle. Then the battery box is bolted on and filled with batteries to power the electric motor.

The cabling, sensors and controllers are connected. Two controls are mounted on the dash. One enables the driver to set the percentage of load assist from the electric motor (0-100%). A second control enables the driver to set the amount of regenerative braking required. Regenerative braking powers the heating, air conditioning and other accessories when your vehicle is running on electric power.

The estimated turnaround time for a hybrid plug in conversion is 80 person hours for cars and SUVs , longer for hybrid truck conversions and other commercial vehicles.

The conversion technology is scalable and the HPEV intends to establish vehicle platforms for Class 4 and 5 trucks concurrently.


Source: Green Car Congress