Alternative fuels and drivelines, connectivity, self-driving systems and cyber-security: these are the challenges that Tatra, the oldest and currently the only Czech commercial vehicle manufacturer, is also facing. The long establised brand, based in Kopřivnice is preparing got the future with theTatra-Hybrid project featured on the TATRA FORCE e-DRIVE model line.
The hybrid drive in combination with a combustion engine, an electric motor-generator and a traction battery of reasonable capacity brings several types of interesting and advantageous added value to the world of heavy truck operation. Not only does it contribute to a lower environmental impact through reduced CO2 emissions, but it also allows the vehicle to operate purely on electric power in one of three basic modes. TATRA FORCE e-DRIVE Hybrid offers a range of up to 50 kilometers in difficult terrain in purely electric operation. In addition, in this operating mode, the vehicle’s noise level is significantly reduced. In the construction or distribution sectors, this can mean a significant advantage when working in zones with totally limited emission limits or a prescribed very low noise level. In the segment of special or military operations, in this mode, the vehicle provides a significantly lower so-called thermal footprint. From the perspective of the tactical use of vehicles with such drive options, this is an extremely interesting solution. It is also important to note that when fully utilizing the hybrid drive, the vehicle has an increased range,“ explained Milan Olsansky, Editor, Trucker magazine in Czech Republic.
The individual axles of the hydrogen heavy-duty truck TATRA FORCE e-DRIVE HYBRID have a pneumatic suspension system and a load capacity of 2×9 tonnes at the front and 2×10 tonnes at the rear. The traction synchronous electric motor with permanent magnets from Danfoss delivers a continuous power of 300 kW with a maximum of 500 kW and has a torque of 2400 N.m. The traction batteries with a capacity of 67 kWh use LTO (lithium Titane Oxide) technology. The vehicle is equipped with a seven-speed main fully automatic Allison transmission.
