KERS system significantly reduces fuel consumption of busses
KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) are actually known from formula one racing sports: When braking, these systems convert the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electrical energy and store it in ultracaps. If energy is needed again for acceleration, drivers can release this energy for “boosting”. Alternatively, the model can also be used to save fuel when accelerating – and this approach is to be applied to Wrights buses. As a result, the buses, which are mostly used on inner-city routes, save considerable amounts of fuel during their frequent departures after bus stops. This translates into a reduction in pollutant emissions.
The use of graphene-based ultracapacitors already enabled fuel savings of 36% in the test phase for double-decker buses. These results were also achieved with buses full of passengers. A further advantage over a battery-based hybrid variant is the space saving, which allows 3 additional seats in the bus.
Graphene is part of Skeleton Technologies’ ultracapacitor technology and significantly increases power and energy density while keeping internal resistance low and extending battery life.
While a conventional battery normally lasts only 4 or 5 years before it is replaced, ultra capacitors with 1 million charge cycles can last at least 7.5 years before they need to be tested – the estimated lifetime is 12 to 15 years. This allows WrightBus operators to reduce their maintenance costs thanks to the cells, says Skeleton
The supply contract between Wright’s Group and Skeleton initially has a duration of five years and a volume of several million euros.
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