UQM Technologies Inc. (Frederick, CO), a developer of alternative energy technologies, announced that a tier-one supplier to automotive companies, is testing a hybrid-electric StarTrans Senator Series shuttle bus converted by Transportation Techniques LLC (TransTeq) and powered by a UQM permanent magnet propulsion system and generator. The UQM propulsion system has been integrated into the driveline on a Ford E450 chassis manufactured by the tier-one automotive supplier to enhance the vehicle's power delivery, performance and fuel efficiency.
One of the primary markets for the StarTrans shuttle bus is as an airport shuttle transporting passengers and their luggage to and from rental car agencies and hotels. The bus has a capacity of 15 passengers plus their luggage. Airport shuttle vehicles are currently a source of pollution at airports as they sit idling, waiting for passengers - often in enclosed, or partially enclosed, areas.
Preliminary performance data from TransTeq indicates that the StarTrans Senator Series hybrid-electric shuttle bus, which has an all-electric operating range of 10 miles, improves city and highway fuel economy by 200% and 145%, and accelerates from 0 mph to 50 mph at the same rate as the conventional diesel-engine-powered vehicle.
