Summary
– US Department of Defense showing interest in electric vehicles and renewable energy
– GM Defense developing new electric vehicle battery for military applications
– AM General transitioning from gas-guzzling Humvee to electric vehicles
– GM’s Ultium lithium-ion battery platform being considered for military electric vehicles
– US Army Corps of Engineers exploring dual-use electric vehicles for disaster response missions
Article
The US Department of Defense has been a key customer for the solar industry in the past, but has been less involved in the electrification of vehicles. However, recent developments show that the Defense branch of General Motors is considering a battery for military electric vehicle applications. This marks a significant shift from GM’s previous gas-guzzling Hummer model, which was later sold to a Chinese automaker, prompting clarification from the US Army regarding the distinction between the Hummer and the military’s Humvee vehicles.
AM General, the original manufacturer of the Humvee, has been working on launching the Humvee into the electric vehicle market with the new Humvee Charge light tactical vehicle concept, which is a diesel-electric hybrid. The company used commercial off-the-shelf technology to develop the hybrid system to ensure compatibility with various charging stations. The concept was unveiled at an Army event in October 2023, and it remains to be seen if the Army will adopt this technology or consider the new GM Defense electric vehicle battery for its fleet.
GM Defense recently announced a collaboration with the University of Texas at Arlington and the Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division to evaluate commercial automotive batteries under dynamic discharge and charge scenarios. The goal is to understand the capabilities of these batteries and explore options for domestically supplied energy storage for military platforms. The batteries in question are part of GM’s Ultium lithium-ion platform, which the company unveiled in 2022 with plans to produce these batteries domestically to support a range of electric vehicles.
The US Army’s efforts to reduce diesel fuel consumption include the Electric Light Reconnaissance Vehicle program, which faced delays but received renewed interest in 2022 with provisions in the Defense Authorization Act. GM Defense has introduced its new Electric Military Concept Vehicle (eISV), capable of seating up to five passengers and accommodating cargo necessary for military operations. Additionally, the US Army Corps of Engineers is developing a dual-use electric vehicle for off-road missions related to construction projects and disaster response.
The Army’s electric vehicle program also involves partnerships with companies like Oshkosh Defense, Canoo, and electric vehicle startup Volcon, aiming to incorporate microgrid and vehicle-to-grid technology. The Army is exploring various automotive stakeholders to electrify its fleet and reduce reliance on traditional fuel sources. Overall, these initiatives represent a significant shift towards electrification in the military sector, potentially contributing to reduced emissions and improved operational efficiency.
Overall, the US military’s interest in electric vehicles and battery technologies signifies a gradual transition towards cleaner and more sustainable transportation options. By partnering with companies like GM Defense and exploring domestic battery production, the military aims to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and enhance operational capabilities through innovative electric vehicle solutions. These initiatives reflect a broader trend towards electrification in various sectors, highlighting the importance of sustainable transportation in achieving environmental and energy security goals.
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