DEUTZ exhibited its first off-highway hybrid concept at INTERMAT 2018. Combining a TCD 2.9 diesel engine and a 55-kW electric motor, the new concept is the first tangible result of the E-DEUTZ program established in 2017, and opens up significant potential for efficiency gains in drivetrain technology.
The company also presented an EU Stage V-certified engine range and new in-line engines with capacities from 9 to 18 L. Its service business presented its free service app ‘DEUTZ Connect’ for remote engine diagnosis.
The E-DEUTZ strategy combines DEUTZ’s low-emission engines with electric drives, and its launch represents the company’s next decisive step forward. In September 2017, DEUTZ also acquired Torqeedo GmbH, a global market leader and system solution specialist for integrated electric and hybrid drives for boats. DEUTZ will harness Torqeedo’s extensive know-how to benefit future developments in its off-highway business.
To illustrate this technology transfer at the Paris show, DEUTZ displayed its concept of a modular, scalable hybrid drive consisting of a TCD 2.9 diesel engine and an e-motor, plus power electronics and a battery pack specially designed for this combination. The e-motor and diesel each deliver 55 kW, producing a combined maximum system output of 110 kW. The lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 40 kWh at 400 volts.
The mechanical connection between the e-motor and the diesel engine is achieved by means of a transmission with integrated decoupler, which allows the diesel engine to be disconnected from the electrical system and provides the option of powering the vehicle purely by electricity. The increased maximum system output makes it possible to use a combustion engine with a lower capacity and output than a pure combustion drive in the same output class. A further benefit of hybridization is the option to integrate additional fuel-saving functions such as start-stop or crankshaft starting, and for power take-offs to run on electricity in future.
As Chairman of the DEUTZ Board of Management, Dr. Frank Hiller, explained, “The power output and capacity of each component can be scaled to meet customers’ requirements. Customers will be able to choose whatever is the optimum combination of conventional and electric drive components for their particular application. Overall, this will increase efficiency and thereby significantly reduce total operating costs.”
“Through the E-DEUTZ strategy, we are leading the way in the field of electrification and investing in cleaner and more efficient technology” says Frank Hiller. “We aim to be the market leader for innovative drive systems in the off-highway sector.”
