Eaton Research Receives $2 Million to Develop Hydraulic Hybrids

WASHINGTON, DC - The House of Representatives has given its final approval to Congressman Fred Upton's (R-St. Joseph, MI) request for $2 million for Eaton Research to develop advanced digital hydraulic hybrid drive systems in U.S. Army vehicles. The funding was included in the conference report for H.R. 3222, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, which passed the House today by a vote of 400 to 15. The innovative hybrid hydraulic systems will improve mobility and stability. Eaton will conduct the research and development in collaboration with Western Michigan University.

"I know firsthand how invaluable the Eaton Corporation is to our community and our local economy, and I am pleased that this $2 million will further Eaton's position at the forefront of exciting, cutting-edge hybrid technologies," said Upton. "I applaud Eaton's collaboration with Western Michigan University to ensure that southwest Michigan will play such an important role in upgrading the U.S. Army's tactical vehicles."

This program will specifically address the weight and volume challenges that military vehicles face due to the additional armor and armaments that are required to increase performance and protection of military personnel. The U.S. Army recognizes the potential benefits of hybrid hydraulic systems and has spent the past several years fostering the development of hybrid vehicles. The Army is looking to Eaton to reduce the weight and size of the hybrid system, improve energy storage and regeneration capability, and significantly improve vehicle mobility. Several "leapfrog" technology advancements are proposed to tackle these three issues.

(Source: U.S. House of Representatives)