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136 
THE LCV 2009 SEMINAR
Page 13
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The Low Carbon Vehicle 2009 seminar and exhibition took place at the Millbrook Proving Grounds, with the aim of building fleet operators' awareness of 'environmentally friendly' commercial vehicles. While there, CM had the chance to test a handful of low-carbon CVs such as DAF's prototype LF hybrid, Mercedes' CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) Sprinter and the new all-electric Transit Connect from Smith Electric.
The DAF hybrid uses rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which power a 44kW electric motor that turns the wheels. The batteries are recharged on the move when the truck brakes or decelerates, and, according to DAF, can cut fuel consumption by around 25%.
Mercedes had a CNG-powered Sprinter on show, which drove just like a normal Sprinter the only difference separating it from its petrol sibling was a small dash-mounted switch labelled NGT' (Natural Gas Technology). Pushing the button allows the driver to alternate between CNG and petrol while on the move. Mercedes says that CNG, although measured by weight instead of volume, still works out cheaper than petrol at roughly 82p/kg.
Smith Electric Vehicles launched a new eight-seater commercial vehicle based on the long wheelbase Ford Transit Connect. The electric minibus, called Speedster, has a claimed range of between 80-130 miles from full charge, and performs well on steeper gradients.