Enova Systems has delivered series hybrid drive systems to Hyundai Motor Company of Korea for their hybrid bus program. The Enova-equipped buses will be Hyundai’s showcase hybrid transit vehicles.

The drive systems were manufactured by Enova as a result of the two companies’ joint hybrid development program. Series hybrid drive systems utilise both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric drive motor.

Enova says the series hybrid is ideal for transit bus applications requiring a powerful electric motor for “transient loads” such as acceleration, while relying on a much smaller engine to operate the on-board generator for “cruising loads.” The operation of the smaller engine at constant speeds yields significant improvements in emissions and fuel economy, as part of a vehicle that delivers the road performance expected by customers.

The series hybrid drive system is an Enova Panther Genset, which consists of a 50kW electric motor, a motor controller and a Diesel engine meeting stringent Euro 3 emission specifications.