The running prototype concept supercar is a hybrid, boasting projected peak power of 1,030bhp, a range of over 2,000km, and fuel economy of 0.18 l/100km. The range is based on 80 litres of aviation kerosene (in urban driving conditions), or a fuel with equivalent calorific value.
The car uses a new patented turbine-recharging electric vehicle (TREV) system.
The series hybrid powertrain technology is a range extender system that uses a micro-turbine to generate electricity that charges a battery pack. The battery powers the motors that drive the wheels. Newly developed battery management technologies enable superior charging efficiency.
The supercar concept is driven by six electric motors, each weighing 13 kg and each one of which is coupled to its own dedicated inverter. Each front wheel is driven by a single motor, while each rear wheel is driven by a pair of motors.
The primary advantage of using two smaller motors instead of a single larger motor for each rear wheel is packaging efficiency and simpler mounting to the monocoque.
The total weight of the TREV range extender system (micro-turbine, inverters, fuel pumps, air pumps, and generator, but excluding batteries and motors) is around 100 kg. The high efficiency of the TREV range extender results in a requirement for fewer batteries, saving weight and space.
Techrules plans to begin series production of TREV technology in a low volume supercar of its own design within a couple of years. It then plans to begin production of higher volume city cars a few years later.
“The TREV system is a perfect combination of micro turbine and electric vehicle technologies. It is highly efficient, produces very low emissions and provides an optimal charging solution for electric vehicles," said Techrules founder and CEO William Jin.
“We believe it may redefine how the next generation of electric vehicles is powered.”
Techrules is a Beijing-based automotive research company focused on developing groundbreaking powertrain technology and fuel-efficient and environment-friendly vehicles. It is a subsidiary of Txr-S, a research and development company which has other divisions operating in new materials development, biogas production and aerospace.
