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Report

Teaser, summary, work performed and final results

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - HiPower (Development of a commercial manufacturing process for a low cost, small footprint, high efficiency fully electric compressor and power controls to fulfil a market need for use in heavy goods vehicles)

Teaser

Summary

Declining air quality in major cities and resulting health impacts due to vehicle emissions is widely reported. Whilst automobile emissions have been targeted by legislation, which has driven consumer awareness and technological development from manufacturers, similar Legislation for commercial vehicles, which account for up to 35% of these emissions is not currently in place. However, this is set to change, and will be introduced in between 5 to 10 years across Europe, commencing 2018 with the introduction of a harmonised emission measurement standard. Truck and bus manufacturers must make required improvements to vehicles before legislation comes into force, to protect their market position. Opportunities therefore exist for technologies that provide greater efficiencies and emission reduction to these manufacturers.
We aim to validate and scale-up manufacture of a cost effective electric compressor that enables efficient electrification of commercial vehicles, to meet tightening emission standards. Objectives for this study were to understand potential markets and their likely evolution, confirm freedom to operate and assess opportunities for I.P. protection, identify and engage with partners, align technical specification to market requirements, identify required approvals (along with developing legislation), to develop our business plan, to demonstrate the business case for HiPower products, and to devise a robust development plan through to commercialisation.

Work performed

We conducted simulated field tests using a conventional compressor to identify performance criteria and validated our conclusions with target potential customers. Along with an in-depth market study, assessment of current and future legislative drivers, and discussions with potential customers and other relevant organisations, we have defined a product specification that provides required benefits to our customer base, at an acceptable price point. We also developed relationships with key contacts who expressed interest in project participation, and in adopting our product when available. From our market study, and discussions with target customers, expected sales volumes were determined, from which a realistic and achievable business plan was devised. Our development plan is closely aligned with customer requirements, and is within our skill set to launch market viable product by 2019.

HiPower eliminates complexity, and provides greater reliability in a smaller, lighter product envelope, with greater service interval, at a significantly lower cost than is otherwise currently available.

Final results

Commercial vehicle manufacturers need technology and products which enable them to comply with impending legislation, which in turn has the aim of delivering environmental and public health benefit. The anticipation of new legislation has already begun to drive market demand. HiPower provides the solution to an unmet need, and will be available at the right time to capitalise on this opportunity. This will deliver significant growth to Equipmake, and our supply chain, providing turnover of GBP 9.1 million by our 5th year following commercial launch.