Hybrid system producer EVO Electric retrofitted a London black cab for the recent Bridgestone Eco-Rally 2010. This 55-mile road race took place on July 7th and featured alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles from Ford, Suzuki and Honda. Every entrant had to navigate through busy Wednesday traffic from Brighton to London. The London Hybrid Black Cab was driven by actor Robert Llewellyn and performed well against the victorious Tesla Roadster.
EVO Electric is a manufacturer of hybrid and electric motors and components. The company incorporated its DuoDrive System with Axial Flux electric motor into the London Hybrid Black Cab. The DuoDrive System allows drivers to choose from three modes including EV, hybrid and all-diesel options. This system is responsible for a 56% fuel economy improvement compared to a standard black cab. EVO Electric projected that this retrofitted cab could achieve 45 miles per gallon in London’s road conditions. The London Hybrid Black Cab also uses a 5 kWh lithium-ion pack from LiFeBATT that can support the vehicle on all-electric power for 15 miles.
EVO Electric has participated in several hybrid and electric vehicle projects in the past year. The company assisted Lotus Engineering with the Evora 414E Hybrid that was shown at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. EVO Electric was also responsible for developing the electric motors for the Racing Green Endurance team from Imperial College London. Students at the school tested their Radical SRZero EV on London’s M25 by driving two laps or 234 miles on the freeway. The Radical SRZero is currently in an endurance test on the Pan-American Highway that runs from Alaska to Argentina.
The London Hybrid Black Cab shows the necessity of events like the Bridgestone Eco-Rally 2010. This road test of the world’s hybrid, electric and alt-fuel vehicles is necessary to grab the attention of the public. Prospective consumers saw how leading automakers and components brands turned existing vehicles into highly efficient demonstrators. EVO Electric also benefits from the demonstration of its DuoDrive System in such an iconic vehicle. Transport for London and other UK agencies are looking for ways to reduce emissions while increasing fuel efficiency. The Bridgestone Eco-Rally 2010 showed that the technology exists for London and other major cities to make swift transitions to eco-friendly vehicles.
