UQM Powertrain Powers Propane-Electric Shuttle

A series hybrid electric shuttle bus powered by a UQM propulsion system is under test by a Tier One supplier.

A Ford LSG 642 (6 cylinder, 4.2-liter) engine fueled by propane drives the generator. Maximum output at 2200rpm (the UQM operating speed) is about 55kW.

The electric motor and generator are standard UQM Powerphase 100 units offering 100kW (134hp) of motoring power and 550Nm (406lb-ft) of peak torque.

The batteries are a 30Ah lithium polymer, with nominal voltage of about 336V. They have a peak discharge capacity of 10C, with very low resistive losses. According to UQM, temperature effects have been minimal – the company characterizes the performance as excellent. Regenerative braking produces up to 60kW at high speeds.

The companies have yet to perform extensive emissions testing on the integrated platform.