Perkins and McElroy Collaborate on Revolutionary Battery Electric Power Unit
Perkins and McElroy, two leading off-highway equipment experts, have joined forces to develop a cutting-edge plug-and-play battery electric power unit. This innovative technology is designed to assist equipment OEMs and upfitters in smoothly transitioning from diesel to battery electric power.
The newly introduced battery electric power unit from Perkins is specifically designed to fit into the same space as their diesel-engined power units. In a groundbreaking move, Perkins installed their new battery power unit into the state-of-the-art McElroy TracStar 900i pipe fusion machine. This specialized equipment is utilized for joining thermoplastic pipes like HDPE or polypropylene through heat-welding them end-to-end, creating a continuous length of pipe.
By replacing their proprietary 134 hp, 3.6-liter 904 Series Tier V diesel engine with the battery electric power unit, Perkins enables existing units to be swiftly upgraded to electric power. This advancement not only facilitates the transition to zero-emission options for operational fleets but also allows trade allies and development partners to effortlessly retrofit their current equipment.
Jaz Gill, the Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing at Perkins, expressed the company’s commitment to assisting customers in navigating the evolving power system requirements. Gill highlighted the range of advanced power systems offered by Perkins, including electric, diesel-electric, and alternative fuel compatible engines. He emphasized that the fully integrated battery electric power unit can seamlessly replace a diesel engine, featuring a Perkins battery, inverters, motors, and on-board chargers packaged into a compact drop-in system.
Chip McElroy, President, and CEO of McElroy, lauded the collaborative effort, stating that the electric, emissions-free power unit will open up new opportunities and applications for their customers. The successful integration of the battery electric system into the TracStar 900i marks a significant milestone for both companies.
The development of the battery electric powered pipe fusion machine was completed in approximately nine months, showcasing the rapid pace of innovation in the industry. Future Perkins-powered electric equipment, including small excavators, telehandlers, pumps, and gensets, could be developed even more swiftly.
This groundbreaking collaboration between Perkins and McElroy signifies a bold step towards a sustainable future in the off-highway equipment sector. The promotional video released by Perkins provides further insight into the capabilities of their electric power unit.
Source: McElroy, Perkins.
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