A groundbreaking moment occurred as an electric vehicle (EV) reached an unprecedented altitude of 6,500 meters, setting a new record.
(Photo : PEAK EVOLUTION)
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Setting EV Altitude Record at 6,500 Meters
The Gebrüder Weiss Peak Evolution utilized the solar-powered Terren truck, marking a significant milestone for eco-friendly technology. Interesting Engineering reported that the feat took place during an expedition to the western ridge of Ojos del Salado in Chile, the highest active volcano on Earth.
Patrik Koller, CEO and developer at Peak Evolution expressed that this achievement not only showcases the potential of the technology but also emphasizes its role in the future of mobility.
The success is anticipated to draw increased attention to alternative drives and their applicability in challenging transportation tasks, including mining. The remarkable Terren, born from the ingenuity of Swiss company Aebi Schmidt, has redefined electric off-road capabilities.
Truck's Versatility
A modified version of the Aebi VT450 Transporter, the Terren prototype stands as an electric multi-purpose vehicle adaptable to trucks with gross vehicle weight ratings between 7,000 and 15,000 kilograms.
This eco-friendly marvel features rear-wheel steering for heightened agility and houses a 90-kilowatt-hour battery, ensuring an impressive range of 124 miles. The production model, however, boasts a larger 140-kilowatt-hour battery, elevating its travel capabilities.
Powering the Terren are two Bosch electric motors, collaborating with an in-house-developed gearbox to deliver a combined 320-horsepower output. This not only results in a 70% increase in efficiency but also a 20 percent power boost, all while weighing half as much as its diesel counterpart.
Swiss battery specialist EcoVolta plays a pivotal role in enhancing Terren's technological prowess. Thoughtful engineering adjustments, including lowering the nominal voltage from 400 to 300 volts (V) for high-altitude resilience, showcase the vehicle's robust engineering.
Ensuring durability, Motor1 reported that a redundancy system of three parallel battery packs enables seamless operation even in the face of potential damage to one pack.
The Terren's lightweight yet sturdy body is a testament to collaborative efforts from 3A Composites, SIKA, and Glas Trösch, featuring thermally insulating composite sandwich panels.
Navigating diverse terrains is a breeze with road tires for minimized rolling resistance during approach and 42" super-tacky offroad tires for conquering mountainous landscapes.
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Adding versatility are strategically positioned hydraulic winches, contributing to Terren's reputation as a triumph of innovation, efficiency, and collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable off-road excellence.
The journey began its course eight weeks ago, as per the press release. The truck navigated a comprehensive route, passing through Rotterdam before embarking on a sea freight journey to reach its final destination in Chile. A subsequent overland transport carried the groundbreaking solar truck to the challenging terrain of the Atacama region.
Upon its arrival, the Peak Evolution team, equipped with the innovative Terren, initiated their expedition, commencing at the Maricunga salt lake for preliminary exploratory tours and acclimatization to the mountainous surroundings at an elevation of 3,400 meters.
The world's highest volcano, known for its rigorous conditions, not only served as a litmus test for the advanced technology of the high-tech vehicle but also presented the team with formidable physical and mental challenges, as reported by the team.
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