Project Summary
A micro gas turbine generator will be tested both in lab and on car to assess the suitability as a range extender
Project Achievements
At Birmingham High Performance Turbomachinery, we used the T-TRIG grant to fund the introduction of air bearings, development of a high speed anternator, and investigation of charging feasibility of a radically-configured low emission and high efficiency microgas turbine engine for range extended vehicles. This is a key step towards the application of the turbo range extender to EV powertrains and providing an environmentally sustainable option for automotive industry.
Conclusions
The project results in a new and fire tested microgas turbine and the TREx, ready for commercialization along these two lines. A number of key stakeholders have shown strong interest, including Jaguar Land Rover and Geely Cars.
With further funding, the UK can become a leader in a new generation of range extended EVs featuring extremely low emissions and high fuel economy. This will help the UK to travel as petrol and diesel cars leave the market in 2030, and as the UK strives for net zero by 2050.
