Fuso - A Better Hybrid
Mitsubishi Fuso takes the challenge of cutting engine exhaust emissions, reducing fuel consumption and improving ease of operation very seriously.
Fuso have achieved these apparently contradictory goals in its Canter HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) model. The company recently celebrated the sale of its 600th Canter HEV in its Japanese domestic market and development is underway for an Australian version, which will utilize the wide (“not so squeezy”) cab to suit Australian customers.
The Canter HEV represents the latest in hybrid technology from Fuso. Utilising the latest in hybrid technology, the lithium ion battery, the Canter HEV is expected to be the first commercial vehicle in Australia to use this higher power density, lighter and longer life battery. Fuso has also evolved the Hybrid concept by adopting a systems approach. Fuso developed the engine and automated transmission specifically to optimize their performance in conjunction with the electric motor/generator.
We expect the Canter HEV to achieve ADR80/03 certification. If it does it will be the first commercial hybrid to go beyond ADR80/02 level in Australia. Compared to our current ADR80/02 compliant models, fuel consumption and exhaust emissions are greatly reduced by the Hybrid system and the use of a smaller capacity engine that can automatically be shut off when not required.
The HEV is close to silent, when starting and pulling away on electric power alone and incorporates Fuso’s advanced INOMAT-II transmission. An automated manual transmission, INOMAT-II requires no shifting or clutch pedal operation, making operation simple and efficient for drivers of all skill levels.
Eco Hybrid Components and Operation
The Canter Eco Hybrid achieves its outstanding results through state-of-the-art design and components. The core of the system is a small-displacement diesel engine. The three litre DOHC, 16-valve intercooled turbo-diesel engine generates 92kW at 3200 rpm and 294 N at 1,700 rpm. It incorporates a diesel particulate filter for trapping PMs and a high precision, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system for reducing NOx.
The central components of the hybrid system on the Canter Eco Hybrid are this small displacement diesel engine; plus an ultra-slim electric motor/generator (35 kW); a high performance Lithium (Li)-ion battery; and the INOMAT-II automated mechanical transmission.
The Canter Eco Hybrid features a parallel hybrid system. That means power to drive the vehicle comes from the vehicle’s electric motor, the diesel engine or both. Fuel efficiency and engine exhaust emissions reduction are achieved by using them singly, or in combination with each other according to driving conditions.
The hybrid system switches its operational mode according to the driving situation. The electric motor is used to drive the vehicle when starting off. During hard acceleration, both the diesel engine and electric motor/generator power the vehicle. When cruising, the vehicle is driven by the diesel engine only, like a conventional vehicle. When slowing down or braking, the electric motor/generator functions as a generator to convert braking energy (normally lost as heat) into electric energy and store it in the Lithium (Li)-ion battery. The INOMAT-II transmission contributes to the process by providing smooth and efficient shifting during operations.
Overall, the Canter Eco Hybrid’s concept strives to achieve an ideal balance between lower engine exhaust emissions and fuel consumption, and ease of operation for driver and owner.
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