Doubters still say Li-Ion technology isn't ready?
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...ticleId=122237
SANTA CLARA, California The U.S. Army, along with military contractor BAE Systems, has publicly unveiled the first hybrid-electric propulsion system for the next-generation Manned Ground Vehicles (MGV).
The Army has issued a multibillion-dollar contract to BAE, General Dynamics and Boeing to develop eight different variants of the MGV as part of its Future Combat Systems program. Built on a common platform, the MGV is being designed to provide "enhanced survivability, increased speed and mobility, new network-based capabilities, and more modern, modular technology," according to the Army.
The Army said it is shifting to a hybrid system because its next-gen vehicles will have much greater electrical power requirements, including onboard computer systems. An added benefit is lower exhaust emissions and reduced reliance on fossil fuels, it said.
The MGV is being designed with a rechargeable lithium-ion energy storage system, engine, generator, controller and traction drive system. A conventional diesel engine is used only to recharge the batteries and power systems other than the drivetrain.
The first hybrid MGV, due in late 2008, is a Non-Line-of-Sight Cannon, which is a fully automated, self-propelled diesel-electric 155mm howitzer.
What this means to you: We can't wait to see the video game.
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