CIFA is introducing an innovative hybrid truck mixer in the shape of its new Energya 9 model. This features a conventional 9m3 capacity mixer drum however the rotational drive system is electric and the machine is also equipped with a lithium ion type battery pack that is charged up while the truck is being driven, assisted by regenerative braking. When the mixer stops on-site, the drive to the drum is supplied either by the battery pack or can be plugged in to a mains power supply. This allows the truck dr
February 21, 2013
Read time: 2 mins
2203 CIFA is introducing an innovative hybrid truck mixer in the shape of its new Energya 9 model. This features a conventional 9m3 capacity mixer drum however the rotational drive system is electric and the machine is also equipped with a lithium ion type battery pack that is charged up while the truck is being driven, assisted by regenerative braking. When the mixer stops on-site, the drive to the drum is supplied either by the battery pack or can be plugged in to a mains power supply. This allows the truck driver to turn off the engine and save on fuel, as well as reducing exhaust emissions. Mixing and unloading can be carried out using the battery pack or mains power, offering a significant reduction in overall fuel use over time. For a fleet of mixer trucks, the fuel saving is likely to be substantial and provide a comparatively rapid payback time for the hybrid technology. There may be long term benefits for the truck’s engine too as this will avoid the need to have the diesel running at idle for long periods on-site, reducing the risk of cylinder wall glazing that can occur when the engine load is very light. As with more conventional truck mixers, customers can choose from a range of suitably-sized carrier vehicles to suit local market requirements and customer preference. This system has been developed in partnership with Milan Polytechnic and CIFA has filed a number of patent applications for the technology. The package is one of several innovative systems CIFA has introduced following its purchase in 2008 by Chinese firm 1175 Zoomlion, with its parent proving extremely keen to invest in research and development and new technology.
