Affordable Hybrid Drive System for Small to Medium Sized Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV)

Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) Technology has been in use in large vehicles for some time. This HEV Technology has yet to be adapted to unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) - especially in the smaller, 1,000 lb. class of UGVs. The objective of this effort is todevelop an affordable diesel fueled, Hybrid Electric drive system that powers a 1300 lb. (590kg) GVW. UGV but scaleable to fit in 100 - 5000 lb. UGVs. The hybrid system and vehicle are capable of operating in extremely rough terrain, high and lowtemperature extremes, and steep slopes. It is also capable of speeds up to 35 kph and silent movement at reduced speed. Additionally the system will operate for 16 hours of RSTA observant silent watch, and 8 hours of 15 kph movement on rough terrain tocomplete a minimum 24hour mission. This Hybrid Electric Drive system is well suited for industrial and commercial vehicles weighing 1000 -5000 lbs. such as, commercial movers, small forklifts, Ground Support Equipment, Utility vehicles, neighborhoodelectric vehicles, lightweight construction equipment.