In the Fast Lane with SPS

The aim of the «Paris Hybrid» is to pave the way for hybrid technology, namely for heavy commercial vehicles. What is your approach to the solution?

Our solution for this is the 4QT system - a new type of hybrid drive concept in which the combustion engine can be used more efficiently with a so-called double-rotor machine.

This double-rotor machine is a new type of electric motor, which can adjust the rotation speed continuously from the first to the second rotor. If the first rotor in the drive train is implemented directly after the combustion engine, it is able to work at a constant rotation speed at the most efficient operating point. The second rotor can adjust the speed depending on the load cycle. The torque is regulated by means of an additional electric motor.

This allows the combustion engine to run as efficiently as possible and excess energy, for example during braking, can also be stored in a battery and used again when accelerating.

How did this innovative solution come about?

The development of this system comes from our partner, the start-up with the same name, “4QT”.

A total of eight students were involved in the “Paris Hybrid” project. Our task was to integrate the system into a suitable vehicle in a sensible manner. The planning and decision-making regarding the optimal concept and the correct vehicle took up a large part of the first of a total of two semesters. We decided on a MAN truck, the TGL 12.220.

When and where will the new product drive on real asphalt for the first time?

At the moment we are busy assembling the individual components within the truck. The next step is testing, which is expected to take place before the end of the year, although that will initially be on a test track. These activities will now be continued in the form of term papers, bachelor’s and master’s theses.

And what happens next?

The tests will enable us to see how much fuel can be saved and where improvements are still necessary. The next step will be to take the application from the prototype stage to a stage where it is suitable for series production. However, we can’t say yet when we will reach that stage.

To what extent was Spühl able to support you with the project?

As I mentioned, in addition to the double-rotor machine, we also need an electric motor. This is important for controlling the torque and making it possible to store the excess energy in the battery so that it can be made available again when required.

We connect the electric motor with a gearbox in parallel with the drive train. Spühl manufactured both halves of the housing for this gearbox. The housing was milled from two aluminum blocks, in which our gears and bearings are now mounted.

What was it like communicating and collaborating with Spühl?

Communication was always very easy and goal-oriented. That helped a lot because we had to make some changes to the gear housing at short notice and it was still possible to implement them. I also really appreciated the instructive tour I was given of the company, during which I was shown where and how our housing was milled.