Eminox and Magnomatics have embarked on a “ground-breaking” continuously variable magnetic drive project called Vaircon. They say it will allow coach and bus air-conditioning units to function without the engine running. That will significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
The six-month Vaircon project began on 1 October. It brings together Eminox’s core competence in integrating emissions-reducing technologies and Magnomatics’ Magsplit electromagnetically operated transmission. The solution will be tailored to the requirement of each vehicle.
Vaircon has received a grant of almost £300,000 from the Office for Low Emission Vehicles, delivered via Innovate UK. It will utilise mild hybridisation. It will also help to tackle the long-standing issue of engine idling, both in depots and coach and bus stations and when parked. The two partners aim to perform real-world testing on vehicles following successful completion of the Vaircon project.
“This UK project has the power to dramatically reduce the environmental impact of passenger transport operators. That will help to achieve net zero emissions goals,” says Eminox Retrofit and Aftermarket Sales Director Carlos Vicente (pictured).
“It also demonstrates Eminox’s ability to diversify, building on our strengths in exhaust aftertreatment technologies to contribute to emissions reductions across other drivetrain components.”
Adds Magnomatics CEO David Latimer: “This project represents an opportunity to expand the application of our revolutionary Magsplit technology to an entirely new product. It will help OEMs and end users to meet future CO2 reduction targets for PSVs.”
