IAA 2012: Unique hybrid concept MAN Metropolis
At the IAA 2012, MAN is presenting a progressive concept: a heavy-duty hybrid truck. Using power from regenerative sources supplied by a normal socket, the MAN Metropolis drives and works without emitting any CO2. Its energy storage, a lithium-ion battery in modular construction, is located beneath the cab, guaranteeing maximum space for the body, optimal weight distribution and the highest safety levels. A quiet and efficient diesel engine from the Volkswagen Group generates on-board power as needed and functions as a range extender for the heavy-duty truck. The end of this year will see the MAN Metropolis starting a two-year field test as a refuse collection vehicle.
With the Metropolis, MAN in cooperation with Benteler Engineering Services is researching the technical feasibility of a vehicle concept that will meet these future requirements for heavy trucks in an urban environment. To this end, MAN has gone beyond the hybrid approach dominating current thinking for heavy-duty trucks and has instead created a completely new type of drive architecture: The Metropolis is an electrically-powered truck based on an MAN TGS 6x2-4. Its electrical motor outputs 203 kW and drives the truck’s rear wheels via a two-speed automatic gearbox. The auxiliary units such as power steering, air compressor and hydraulic pump as well as the air-conditioning system are also operated electrically and are demand-controlled via the energy-management system, thus saving energy. A colour display in the cockpit informs the driver of the current energy parameters, such as energy recovery, battery status and charge mode.
Energy is supplied by a modular lithium-ion battery with a maximum capacity of 105 kWh. Thanks to its plug-in function, the battery can be easily and conveniently recharged at the nearest mains socket. The weight of the battery is thus on the front axle so that as before, the rear axles can bear the weight of the body and of the goods being transported. The weight saving achieved through dispensing with a conventional truck engine and gearbox offsets the extra weight of the hybrid system, so that the vehicle has exactly the same payload as the standard MAN TGS 6x2-4.
The function of the range extender is filled by a modern, compact diesel engine designed for use in passenger cars. In the MAN Metropolis this is a V6 TDI engine from the Volkswagen Group: in conjunction with a generator, this engine ensures the efficient production of electricity. The three-litre TDI engine delivers 150 kW (204 hp). An engine management program is responsible for seeing that diesel engine always runs within its most efficient range in terms of consumption.
