Quiet Achiever: Hybrid-electric Joint Light Tactical Vehicle

Early 2022 saw the unveiling by Oshkosh Defense of the first-ever silent drive hybrid-electric Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), the eJLTV. The new hybrid-electric variant builds upon the performance and protection of the proven Oshkosh Defense JLTV.

Since winning the $6.7 billion US Army Joint Light Tactical Vehicle Contract in 2015, Oshkosh Defense has delivered around 15,000 JLTVs to the US Army and Marines.

Retaining the base JLTV engine and transmission, an integrated motor generator and a high voltage energy storage system were added to the eJLTV as part of the powertrain, delivering 20% better fuel economy and increased exportable power.

The addition of silent drive, extended silent watch eliminate noise and heat signatures associated with diesel engines, enabling the eJLTV to be used more stealthily in combat and reconnaissance scenarios.

Although the current system adds an estimated 1,200 lbs. to the base vehicle, the eJLTV is capable of handling the same challenging terrain and offering the same level of protection as the JLTV.

“For many years, we’ve been developing, testing and evolving hybrid-electric variants of our heavy and medium-duty tactical wheeled vehicles,” said John Bryant, Executive Vice President for Oshkosh Corporation and President of Oshkosh Defense.

“Now, with the eJLTV, we’re offering our military customers an affordable way to electrify their light tactical wheeled vehicle fleet without compromising the off-road performance or superior protection necessary in combat operations.”

The eJLTV’s 30kWh capacity lithium-ion battery charges while the diesel engine is in use, and can fully recharge within 30 minutes. This eliminates the need for a charging

infrastructure, which remains one of the most significant challenges to the widespread electrification of the tactical wheeled vehicle fleet.

The battery also provides a 115 kilowatt power-take off for electrical equipment, so troops can avoid the need to use separate, noisy generators in the field. It also eliminates the need for a towed generator.

The eJLTV can be configured to supply export power at 240Vac, 208Vac, or 480Vac using military grade power inverters. More than 250kW is also available in 20 second bursts.

Conventional Mode: The traditional operational mode of the JLTV (diesel engine).

Silent Drive Mode: In this mode the vehicle utilises the battery and integrated motor generator for power – no engine.

Silent drive reduces overall risk to the Warfighter during approach by eliminating the noise and heat associated with the diesel engine. When stationary in silent drive mode, Silent Watch capability increases by more than three times (2.5-8.5 hours).

An operator can seamlessly transition from Silent Drive mode to conventional mode with the switch of a button. There is no need to stop or turn off the vehicle.

Hybrid Mode: In this mode the vehicle utilises the diesel engine and the battery, reducing idle time, improving fuel economy, and enhancing acceleration. This mode also includes active idle and start/stop functionality.

Active idle manages vehicle readiness in extended idle situations. The vehicle utilises the battery when the parking brake in engaged. Active idle saves fuel and reduces engine hours, thereby increasing PMCS intervals.

This is accomplished by leveraging the onboard energy storage to cool/heat the cabin, run C4ISR systems, and start/stop the engine automatically, keeping the vehicle ready for action.

During start/stop the engine shuts off when the vehicle stops and restarts when the vehicle accelerates again.

Oshkosh Defense and its parent company, Oshkosh Corporation, have a rich history in electrification and are pushing the boundaries of innovation for customers.

Oshkosh Defense is a global leader in the design, production and sustainment of best-in-class military vehicles, technology solutions and mobility systems. Oshkosh develops and applies emerging technologies that advance safety and mission success. Setting the industry standard for sustaining fleet readiness, Oshkosh ensures every solution is supported worldwide throughout its entire life cycle.

For more information please visit: www.oshkoshdefense.com