Develon shows hybrid prototype
25 April 2024
At this week’s Intermat exhibition in Paris, Develon has shown a prototype wheel loader designed to be powered by either a battery pack or a hydrogen fuel cell.
The manufacturer says the power system on the 14900kg DL250 FCEV (fuel cell electric vehicle) has been divided into two primary areas to provide this versatility: a Function Area responsible for the operation of equipment with a smaller battery capacity, and the Power Source Area serving as the equipment's main power hub.
This allows the machine to be converted to use either power source.
Develon says that a challenge that arises especially in equipment similar to electric vehicles with large battery capacities is the extended charging time typically needed relative to machine operation. However, the modular nature of the system means that batteries can be replaced quickly.
When compared with traditional internal combustion engine wheel loaders of equivalent weight and performance, the DL250 FCEV, has a more substantial rear size. This results from the replacement of spaces previously occupied by the engine and fuel tank with the power pack, which could potentially hinder visibility during operation due to the increased size of the Power Source Area.
To mitigate this, Develon has equipped the machine with cameras to enhance rearward sight lines.
Both the front operations and driving tasks of the wheel loader have been equipped with electrically driven systems. The e-Working system is designed to ensure performance equal to or better than existing internal combustion engine equipment, while the e-Travel system incorporates regenerative driving to enhance efficiency and is said to offer rapid responsiveness compared to conventional combustion engines.
Develon says that the DL250 FCEV, which currently uses hydrogen as its power source, can operate for over eight hours on a full charge. Should it be converted to use a battery as its power source, it still maintains the equivalent performance, states the manufacturer.
