Converting Off-Highway Equipment to Electric Power

Since the 1960s, environmental regulation has been cracking down on the transportation industry, and the response has been overwhelming, with new technologies helping to make internal combustion engines cleaner.

Off-highway vehicles are evolving, and multiple advantages and technologies are now being produced to deliver clean power through electricity. Understanding the complexities of this transition is key, so our team of experts has a helpful guide below.

Conversion Solutions

Electrical conversion techniques are advancing, and more OEMs are now looking at how to develop components that will run off-road equipment to help navigate the amount of energy it takes for their daily tasks.

Some top manufacturers have increased their research and development teams for alternative electric power system components and enhanced batteries to ensure they have enough power to perform.

From underground mining excavators to ATVs, modern design is taking into consideration questions like:

●        What are the key operating requirements?

●        How will it cope with impact loads, challenging environments, and high vibration?

●        Does this noise output need to be minimized?

Each machine characteristic needs to be fine-tuned, which means converting the inverter's battery packs and moving from gas and diesel to electric or electric-powered hydraulics to meet the demand.

What Are the Advantages of Converting?

The future of electric off-road vehicles has some clear goals and advantages:

●        Reducing noise and emissions

●        Improved vehicle data performance

●        More cost savings on fuel

●        Enhancing operator comfort

●        Improving new standards for engines

●        Decreased routine maintenance

●        Greater efficiency

What Are the Challenges of Conversion

Off-road vehicles operate in different conditions than standard vehicles, so the biggest challenges going electric presents are:

Extreme Temperature Challenges

Off-highway vehicles must operate efficiently and reliably in various temperatures, from high humidity to extreme cold. This can affect the batteries' state as these environments require more energy to keep the vehicle functioning properly and the operator comfortable, making it more challenging for the battery to run.

Uneven Terrain

Off-road vehicles commonly go up against uneven surfaces, leading to intense vibrations and shocks due to their nature, leading to sensitive electrical and mechanical components being damaged or coming loose.

Industry Changes

There's also a standard in the industry and some skepticism about the abilities of electric vehicles, especially in the off-highway market. Manufacturers can be up against willingness to change in the industry, and there may be views that the vehicles are not reliable enough; when combined with the cost of implementation, it can be a more challenging concept for some to accept.

Expert Off-Highway Upgrades with BSM North America

With the off-highway electric vehicle market growing exponentially, more OEMs are jumping on the bandwagon for change. Keeping up to speed with advanced products and features for your off-road vehicle can help you stay updated, and when you need an expert in the business, BSM North America has you covered.

For over 30 years, our team has been streamlining industrial fabrication and developing custom steering columns and accessories in industries ranging from military and defense to construction.

If you're looking to enhance your off-highway vehicle, give us a call at 952-890-8146 or contact us online for more information.