Electric Propulsion Attachment for Vans EPAV

The Electric Propulsion Attachment for Vans (EPAV) will connect to the rear of the van through a multi-link towbar and effectively push the vehicle from behind using electric power. The solution is ideal for vehicles that are already side access only (such as certain supermarket home delivery vehicles) van-based minibuses and panel vans with both side and rear doors. Key objective of the project is to design an Electric Propulsion Attachment capable of connecting to a broad range of 3500kg vans; it will be easy to install; easy to connect to the driving controls (accelerator, brake, signals, lights); convenient to recharge; have a neutral impact on vehicle handling; it will be readily removed for fitting to another vehicle. Main areas of focus will be powertrain & battery installation and multi-link vehicle attachment. The powertrain needs to provide adequate performance within the urban environment. Battery pack needs to provide adequate range for the operations. Multi-link attachment needs to satisfy safety, durability and handling requirements. This latter point is important, as the traditional single pivot towbar cannot transmit the power in a stable manner from a rear axle. A powertrain controls model will also be developed so that the inputs from driver's controls on the base vehicle are interpreted correctly for use by the electric powertrain when it is active while still operating the diesel engine when needed. The EPAV brings a new dimension to fleet renewal with electric drive. EPAV can be fitted to a van of any age, removed at the end of the lease or ownership period and transferred to another vehicle. We believe this project helps to accelerate the shift to low carbon transport by allowing vehicle operators to switch to electric at any point in their vehicle life cycle and without needing to select which locations can operate BEV by retaining the original engine to provide stem mileage. Links to geofencing would be developed in Phase 2 to ensure the maximum benefit is taken from the zero emissions capability. These factors in turn will allow on-demand transport by minibus or van-derived taxi to benefit from Zero Emissions capability, therefore helping to decarbonise energy, business & industry and provide for a more sustainable public sector.