Member Article

Defence specialists’ “game-changing” technology for hybrid electric vehicles

British defence technology specialists QinetiQ are set to provide a “game-changing” component of hybrid electric drive systems to BAE Systems.

The Hampshire-based firm will supply its ‘E-X-Drive transmission’ to BAE’s Northrop Grumman team, who were recently awarded a contract to work on vehicles for the US army.

The technology marks a significant step forward from conventional hydro-mechanical transmissions in terms of efficiency, size, weight, reliability and flexibility.

Mark Signorelli, vice president and general manager of weapons systems at BAE Systems, commented: “E-X-Drive® is the key component of our hybrid electric drive propulsion system for the GCV having been proven by the U.S. Army’s Future Combat System programme as the most mature and capable product available.

“Our system has the added advantage of provisioning for growth in power requirements as new technologies are matured and integrated into the platform.”

QinetiQ are set to deliver several transmissions during the 24-month technology development phase of the combat vehicle programme.

David Crane, programme director of power management at QinetiQ, added: “We are delighted to be on the BAE Systems-Northrop Grumman team as the provider of E-X-Drive® technology that is a key differentiator for the Ground Combat Vehicle and a significant innovation in armoured fighting vehicle design.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .