Volvo Group unveils hybrid technology

Feb. 1, 2007
THE VOLVO GROUP has rolled out its internally developed unique hybrid technology for heavy vehicles, I-SAM (Integrated Starter Alternator Motor). A Mack

THE VOLVO GROUP has rolled out its internally developed unique hybrid technology for heavy vehicles, I-SAM (Integrated Starter Alternator Motor).

A Mack Granite construction truck with hybrid drive has been ordered by the U.S. Air Force and is part of the Volvo Group's broad-based investment in commercially viable hybrid technology for heavy vehicles.

Development of the Mack Granite was carried out in close cooperation with the U.S. Air Force, which earlier also was involved in producing a prototype of a tanker truck with hybrid drive.

The Volvo Group in March 2006 presented a hybrid solution that it believes has great potential of becoming commercially viable. Volvo's solution was named based on its functionality, I-SAM, and can provide fuel savings of up to 35% depending on application area and driving conditions. The first vehicles are expected to enter production in 2009.

The Group is also developing hybrid technology for construction equipment, such as wheel loaders, in which the fuel savings can be up to 50%.

“The issue of climate changes and uncertainty regarding the supply and pricing of oil makes hybrid drive an extremely attractive technology for our customers,” said Volvo CEO Leif Johansson. “With our solution, we can offer technology that saves fuel and the environment and, consequently, can be good business for society and our customers.”

The Mack hybrid electric powertrain features an Integrated Starter, Alternator and Motor (I-SAM). The I-SAM electric machine works together with the Mack MP7 engine and an automated manual transmission. The system uses ultracapacitors to store the electrical energy recovered during braking. This technology provides the maximum fuel savings on routes with frequent braking and accelerations — for example, refuse collection or urban delivery trucks.

Mack says the advantages of hybrid technology include better fuel economy, reduced emissions and noise, reduced engine and brake maintenance, and lower overall operating costs.

The electric machine assists the diesel in providing torque to the wheels and regenerates energy during braking. This energy (stored in ultracapacitors) is then used in place of diesel fuel.

The Mack Granite Axle Back TM has a Monroe dump, empty weight of 25,300 lb, length of 26'10", width of 96", and height of 131.5".

Its ratings: front axle, 18,000 lb, Mack FXL18; rear axle, 46,000 lb, Mack S462; GVW, 64,000 lb; max speed, 66 mph.

The engine is an MP7 — 365M with 365hp @ 1500-1900 peak, 11L turbocharged diesel.