Random Thoughts of Chris Tilley

This is a cool idea patented by the EPA, a hydraulic hybrid. They have a UPS truck that is out making the rounds and being evaluated. They are predicting 60-70% improvement in fuel efficiency.

So what is a hydraulic hybrid, basically take out the batteries and replace with a pressure tank. So when the engine is running it pumps fluid from the low pressure tank to the high pressure tank. The high pressure tank uses that stored energy to power hydraulic motors at the wheels. You can also capture energy when braking by using the energy to pump more fluid into the high pressure side.

Another advantage is that you can put the hydraulic motors right at the wheels and eliminate the drive train. That weight savings will add to the fuel efficiency.

While this was designed for larger vehicle I am curious how it work in a mid-sized car like the Toyota Prius Hybrid and how it would compare to an electric hybrid and a plug in hybrid.

This is the kind of innovation that leads me to believe that we can beat global warming and make money doing it.