Every major automotive company is becoming more and more green these days. Cleaner and energy efficient vehicles are becoming more common these days, even in the military. Yes, the defense industry is becoming green!
Ricardo is a British company that develops engines, transmissions, vehicle systems, intelligent transportation systems and hybrid & electric systems. Their latest creation is the FED ALPHA.
The Ricardo FED ALPHA is an environment friendly and fuel-efficient armored vehicle which is currently being tested by the US Army. This military truck is designed to maximize fuel economy while maintaining the capability and performance of light tactical wheeled vehicles.
Ricardo powers the FED ALPHA with a Cummins I4 engine and equips it with Goodyear Fuel Max low rolling resistance tires. The on-board electric power is generated by a high efficiency 28-volt permanent magnet integrated starter-generator from Kollmorgen. Another fuel-saving features are the lightweight aluminum structure, armoring, and underbody blast shield which support and protect the vehicle while reducing weight.
It would be interesting to see if Ricardo will offer a civilian version of the FED ALPHA. After all, the Mercedes G-class was initially developed as a military vehicle, just as the Hummer H1 or the Dartz T-98 Kombat. A luxurious and street-legal Ricardo FED ALPHA would surely please some people!
