ePower Engine Systems, llc. is a developer of hybrid electric drive train technology for Class 8 trucks. It was issued US Patent 8,783,396 on July 22, 2014 encompassing their drive train technology.[1] ePower is in the final stages of its Research and Development of a diesel electric kit for rebuilding older Class 8 trucks. The kit consists of a road-certified diesel engine, batteries, electric motor and an automatic transmission from major manufacturers.[2]
ePower Engine Systems' technique is to have a diesel generator drive an electric motor and utilize an automatic transmission to drive the wheels of large Class 8 trucks (called semi trucks in the USA). Batteries are used to store additional power needed to climb grades and recharged either by the genset or regenerative braking.[1] The diesel engine being used is about 1/2 the size of a normal engine found in one of these trucks. Therefore, the diesel consumption is about thirty to forty percent less than a normal truck.[3][4][5] The company is currently experimenting with an Eaton 10-speed transmission and Super capacitors. The Cummins diesel engine, Marathon generator and Marathon electric motor remain as in prior versions of the kit.