Emissions can be reduced by as much as 30% with the hybrid powertrain
There are many hybrid vehicles available from a multitude of manufacturers. But RollsRoyce has a new concept that is getting attention. The company presented a new haul truck concept today – for large mining operations – which uses a hybrid powertrain to lower its carbon emissions. Rolls will be showcasing the concept at MINExpo 2021 through its Power Systems business unit.
While the performance of the new concept is unchanged, it combines MTU’s less powerful diesel engines with battery power. Rolls’ simulation showed that the vehicle’s CO 2 emissions could be reduced by the hybrid powertrain, which would vary depending on the terrain. It will take more energy to get from the bottom of a quarry than it does to drive on a flat road. Rolls can reduce the engine’s size and emissions by recharging its onboard batteries. This is done by recovering braking energy from going downhill. It draws on the stored energy when it goes uphill.
This concept follows the BMW i Vision Circular Concept, which showcases a recyclable city car. BMW states that reducing emission means rethinking all aspects of car building. This includes mineral extraction. Rolls’ idea is a first step towards achieving this ambitious goal, particularly as rare earth metals demand continues to grow alongside the growing EV market.
Rolls and MTU are investing heavily in alternative power sources to help them achieve their vision of a net zero carbon mining operation. This includes microgrids and sustainable fuels, as well as fuel cells and hydrogen engines. EVs will not be the answer for all applications. However, there are many ways to reduce carbon emissions. Many automakers are still developing hydrogen, but each new type of power source will reduce carbon emissions. Rolls is not a common commercial automaker. However, it has many interests and its new green concept demonstrates that.