The world’s first hybrid rigid lorry fitted with a new kinetic energy recovery system (Kers) is poised to be commercially tested on a number of UK urban delivery routes.

UltraBoost, designed by French technology firm Adgero, is claimed to reduce fuel consumption and associated emissions by up to 15-30% depending on terrain and traffic flow.

During braking, the unit becomes a generator, recovering kinetic energy that would otherwise be lost as heat. This energy is then stored in a bank of five high-power graphene-based ultracapacitors  and used to re-power the vehicle.

The technology is controlled by an intelligent management system that tracks driver input in order to automatically control the regenerative braking and acceleration boost.

In addition to lower fuel use and CO2 emissions, the system is said to reduce brake wear and tear and associated maintenance costs.

For the UK trial, the UltraBoost system will be fitted to a Euro-6 Iveco Eurocargo by Southampton-based conversion specialist Alternatech.

The vehicle will then be supplied through vehicle rental firm Fraikin to a well-known UK operator for use on its urban delivery routes, including Greater London.

President of Adgero, Mack Murray, said it was important that the demonstrator trial would include delivery routes in London, considering the city’s efforts to tackle diesel vehicle emissions.

“Vehicle emissions are a major concern for London and Adgero is proud to be working on part of the solution. We look forward to exploring the future of our application on other routes and vehicles in the weeks and months to come.”

Adgero recently partnered with manufacturer SDC Trailers to install the Kers technology on a 13.6m curtainsider trailer currently on trial in the UK with operator Eddie Stobart.

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