Shores, David A.

Volume II of this study is a compilation of test reports that result from a 10-month evaluation_ of E-TRAN Road Powered Electric Vehicle technology to determine operational safety and system durability/reliability; technology effectiveness; snow and ice removal requirements; and cost effectiveness. The test reports identify several areas for further study and development. Through a series of theoretical and laboratory tests, this evaluation concludes that the E-TRAN RPEV concept remains sound in theory, but as tested under the current design, the system does not yet provide a safe and reliable transportation power alternative. The study addressed some findings of a previous report (No. MN/RC 93/03). However, the system design is still an immature technology under development, and must address significant safety and practical problems. Especially, the system must be made more robust and resistant to stresses and conditions found in a northern public roadway environment. A laboratory test indicated a 46 percent reduction in energy consumption compared to gasoline power. The E-TRAN RPEV concept holds further promise as a possible solution to the limited range and energy efficiency of battery-powered vehicles. Volume I presents summary results and also provides conclusions and recommendations to focus on future development of identified safety and technical design areas.

Volume I of this report presents summary results of a 10-month evaluation of E-TRAN Road Powered Electric Vehicle (RPEV) technology to determine operational safety and system durability/reliability; technology effectiveness; snow and ice removal requirements; and cost effectiveness. Through a series of theoretical and laboratory tests, this evaluation concludes that the E-TRAN RPEV concept remains sound in theory, but as tested under the current design, the system does not yet provide a safe and reliable transportation power alternative. The study addressed some findings of a previous report (No. MN/RC 93/03). However, the system design is still an immature technology under development, and must address significant safety and practical problems. Especially, the system must be made more robust and resistant to stresses and conditions found in a northern public roadway environment. A laboratory test indicated a 46 percent reduction in energy consumption compared to gasoline power. The E-TRAN RPEV concept holds further promise as a possible solution to the limited range and energy efficiency of battery-powered vehicles. The report identifies several areas for further study and development and also provides recommendations to focus on future development of identified safety and technical design areas. Volume II includes detailed test reports for tests performed, as well as estimates of capital and operating cost comparisons.