Mary-Louise Hoffman
BAE Systems has finished a simulation for the hybrid electric drive system of a ground combat vehicle the company is developing for the U.S. Army.
The GCV underwent 2,000 miles of testing on a mobility platform that works to simulate different terrains and the assessment concluded four months ahead of schedule, BAE said Monday.
“Our primary objective was to test our hybrid electric technology over time against realistic environments and the successful completion of the testing is a testament to the quality and maturity of the technology,” said Mark Signorelli, BAE vice president and general manager of armored combat systems.
The Hotbuck simulator is intended to combine hybrid controller, traction motor, engine, generator and software that BAE will incorporate into the next Army infantry vehicle.
BAE aims for the electric drive system to improve the GCV’s life cycle, maneuverability, acceleration and fuel efficiency.
The firm is contracted to execute the technology development phase of the Army GCV program and expects to complete work by June 2014.
