Perkins collaborates on off-highway hybrids

Perkins, Equipmake, and Loughborough University have joined forces to develop an advanced multi-fuel drop-in hybrid integrated power unit. 

The collaboration aims to create a power unit that can directly replace diesel engines in terms of power density and response, enabling off-highway equipment manufacturers to accelerate their transition to lower-carbon or zero-carbon fuels. 

Supported by A$21.7 million in funding from the UK government’s Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), the project, named Coeus, will develop a 7.0-litre Perkins 1200 Series industrial power unit with hybrid-electric components for operation on various fuel types, including hydrogen, methanol, bio-ethanol, and other eFuels.

The APC uses research and collaboration to provide valuable insights, funding, and guidance to help turn innovative ideas into successful, marketable solution by supporting early-stage R&D, transforming proof of concepts into practical products, and offering strategic guidance to support the development of the most promising technologies for practical use.

Perkins VP and GM David Goldspink said the project will “lead the way in solving some of the key challenges facing the off-highway industry’s energy transition and support the transition towards reduced carbon in this key sector”.

Perkins, a subsidiary of Caterpillar, will lead the 42-month project from its engineering HQ in Peterborough. Loughborough University will provide support through advanced engine analytics and emissions control.

Heavy-duty electric powertrain specialist Equipmake will receive AU$6.2 million in funding and develop a high-torque-density electric motor, inverter, and associated power electronics in-house. The hybrid powertrain system will have a performance range of 45kW-250 kW.

Besides the Coeus project, Perkins is developing lithium-ion batteries with modular designs and factory-installed telematics for improved performance, as well as engines that can use lower-carbon fuels like hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and biodiesel without modifications. A range of highly configurable integrated diesel-electric hybrid powertrains for various applications is also under development.