Volkswagen Powered By UQM Generator

A series hybrid electric Volkswagen New Beetle developed by TNO Automotive, Delft, The Netherlands, was on display at the EVS-20 Exhibition in Long Beach, California, in mid-November. The VW is powered by a 1.2 liter, three-cylinder TDI diesel engine driving a UQM7 42kW permanent magnet generator, from UQM Technologies, which produces the power to recharge a nickel metal hydride battery pack.

In a series hybrid electric vehicle the engine is not connected to the wheels and is used solely to generate the power required for operation. Power and thermal management for the vehicle are performed by a CAN-enabled microcontroller. The vehicle is capable of traveling up to 10 kilometers in all-electric mode and consumes approximately 4.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers during hybrid electric operation, reducing fuel consumption by 30 to 35% versus a conventionally powered New Beetle.

“The UQM7 generator powering our hybrid electric Volkswagen New Beetle has met all of our expectations, delivering 42kW of continuous power with exceptional energy efficiency from a compact and lightweight machine. We believe the hybrid electric powertrain developed by TNO Automotive for the New Beetle has additional applications for urban distribution trucks, military vehicles, people movers and urban buses, and we are looking forward to pursuing these opportunities,” said Salem Mourad, business manager, advanced powertrains, for TNO.