The DOE is soliciting applications (DE-FOA-0001542) for funding to form a consortium that will pursue R&D topics related to improving the efficiency of medium- and heavy-duty trucks. A total of $12.5 million in funding is available, as part of the US-China Clean Energy Research Center, a bilateral initiative to encourage R&D collaboration between the two countries. A parallel Chinese Consortium will be formed with a similar level of funding.

The US consortium will investigate several subtopics having to do with hybrid powertrains, including drive unit optimization (engine, motors, power electronics), energy storage systems and regenerative braking. Other subtopics include ways to reduce aerodynamic drag, vehicle weight and tire rolling resistance. The technologies developed will be deployed on a demonstration truck.

The goal is to improve the on-road freight efficiency of medium- and heavy-duty trucks by greater than 50% compared to a 2016 baseline truck.

Source: US DOE via Green Car Congress
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