Engine
The engine burns fuel and converts it into mechanical energy to power the vehicle. A heavy vehicle engine is typically a diesel internal combustion engine.
Power Electronics
Power electronic systems such as converters and inverters condition and control the electrical signal between the energy storage unit and the motor/generator to provide power to various vehicle components at critical times.
Command Control Unit
The command control unit is a computer that controls all the electronic components in the hybrid control system. The unit receives information from sensors throughout the hybrid system and controls operational integration and power management.
Motor Generator
An HEV's motor converts electrical energy to mechanical to power the wheels. It also acts as a generator to create electricity from mechanical torque it receives from the wheels during regenerative braking.
Transmission
An HEV's transmission interacts with the motor, engine, and command control unit to provide traction energy to the vehicle. It allows proper clutching and gear ratio changes between the engine and the drive wheels as a truck speeds up and slows down.
Energy Storage System
The energy storage system is typically a battery and/or ultracapacitor. The system stores electricity from the generator, which helps power the motor and other auxiliary electrical devices.
Waste Energy Recovery Unit
The waste energy recovery unit takes heat from the exhaust and converts it directly to electrical energy, which is stored in the energy storage system or used to power auxiliary electrical devices.
Regenerative Braking
A HEV reclaims a portion of the vehicle's kinetic energy through regenerative braking. This energy is otherwise lost as heat to the environment in deceleration.
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