Energy Efficiency Research and Development for Fluid-Power Systems in Off-Road Vehicles
DE-FOA-0001815
Applicants must submit a Concept Paper by 5:00pm ET on 11/20/2017.

The objective of this FOA is to research technologies that can improve the energy efficiency of fluid power systems for commercial off-road vehicles . Construction, mining, and agriculture equipment represent the majority of fuel consumption in off-road vehichles, and this equipment relies heavily on fluid-power systems (i.e. hydraulics) to actuate most of their functions. They are preferred over electric motors because of their high specific power density and ability to tolerate shock and harsh environments. However, current fluid-power systems have poor efficiency. Research in this area can provide decreased operating costs for these key domestic industries.