Fuel Efficiency for Tactical Wheel Vehicles and Convoys (FETCH)

The US military fields many types of vehicles for various types of tasks. One area of improvement which has yet to be explored in depth for these platforms is fuel economy. As fuel prices continue to increase and budgets are tightened, the military is concerned about reducing these costs. In addition, the cost of a convoy with which to transport the fuel to remote locations takes a heavy tool in human life. This effort will be focused on ways to use novel engine modifications to improve fuel economy and power by examining the operating range currently used with this vehicle. Diesel engines are designed primarily to produce maximum power while under load with the best fuel economy possible. However, very often these vehicles are at rest, powering accessories, or are operating in a modality not requiring full power output. These engines do not have a modality to produce only the required power at any given point. Robotic Research, LLC intends to improve the fuel economy and power of military vehicles by exploring a range of improvements. Specifically, we believe we can utilize our experience with Engine Control Management (ECM) improvements, as well as smart driving technology, to accomplish these goals.