JOHNSON CITY, NY - BAE Systems, a leading developer and producer of hybrid electric technologies, is developing a parallel hybrid propulsion system designed for medium- and heavy-duty truck applications. The parallel system is the latest version of the company's HybriDrive green propulsion system.

BAE Systems' HybriDrive series system powers vehicles by many of the world's leading bus manufacturers, including Daimler and New Flyer in the United States and Alexander Dennis and Irisbus Iveco in Europe. The HybriDrive parallel system, in final stages of development, will see it first road trials next spring and is expected to be deployed in markets around the world in 2012.

The HybriDrive series propulsion system - currently in service on more than 3,000 transit buses in cities around the world - meets the demands of urban transit duty cycles, which require low average speeds and frequent stop-and-go operation. The HybriDrive parallel system is designed to address the needs of vehicles with duty cycles that require higher operating speeds and less frequent stops, according to BAE Systems. 

"The development of a parallel system is part of our strategy to broaden our HybriDrive product family to meet the growing worldwide need for more efficient transport and energy management," said Steve Trichka, vice president of power and energy management for BAE Systems.

HybriDrive series and parallel technologies both use simplified and proven components and controls to deliver their capabilities, the company said. While the series system does not use a transmission, the HybriDrive parallel system is based on a single electric machine integrated between the engine and the transmission. The system can be installed with minimal impact to the vehicle, and enhances propulsion through an optimized blending of internal combustion engine power and electric power.

The system's energy management and control capabilities ensure all energy flow - such as propulsion and regeneration - occurs in the most efficient fashion to lower fuel consumption and reduce emissions, BAE Systems said.