A feasibility study has been completed, based on the activities listed in the original Phase 1 project application. Specifically, these activities included 1. Risk assessment, 2. User engagement, 3. Engine testing, 4. Market studies, 5. IP management strategy and 6. Business plan refinement.
Effective risk management is crucial for project success and a comprehensive risk assessment was undertaken. The outputs from this work has already been used in planning further work and devising an effective work plan. The assessment exercise included technical, commercial, environmental and management risks. Higher risks have been identified and contingency plans developed.
User engagement activities have been undertaken with a number of potential end-users and stakeholders. This was achieved by discussion at industry events, shows and meetings with focussed end-user groups. Several automotive manufacturers have expressed high levels of interest in the technology in range extender solutions. This included support from a broad range of sectors including very small (quadricycle) manufacturers, cars, sports cars and Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sectors. The automotive market continues to be the primary application and main focus for exploitation of CREEV. It is also worth noting that user engagement identified that rotary engines offer distinct advantage in marine markets where there is a requirement for quiet and efficient power to operate vessels in port or shallow waters without having to use large, powerful marine diesel engines. In addition, there are increasing needs for autonomous maritime platforms to recharge batteries and operate flexibility. Similarly, there is also potential in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) markets where high power/weight ratios are a primary selection criteria to enable better payload or range capability. Applications for UAVs include aerial surveillance, fire-fighting and first responder applications. It was also apparent that there is increasing demand for range-extended multi-rotor UAV platforms. With anticipated 400% increase in range and 20% reduction in emissions, CREEV is also expected to deliver environmental benefits and lower running costs.
Engine testing was carried out on the prototype CREEV unit using an engine water brake dynamometer test rig. The findings of the test were documented, with data being acquired on the engine dynamometer using a standard and modified engine to quantify performance benefits. Specific Fuel Consumption (SFC), power output (hp) and noise level (dB) data was gathered over a range of engine operating speeds between 4000 and 6000rpm. Test results showed that at 5,500rpm, SFC increased from 0.55lb/hp-hr to 0.69lb/hp-hr (25% improvement) and that power increased from 17.1hp to 20.1hp (17.5% improvement). A decrease in engine noise was also demonstrated, even at higher power levels and optimisation activities have been identified to improve engine performance further.
Market studies were undertaken which showed that as range extender technology improves, hybrid EVs are expected to be widely adopted in the market place. As countries seek to address future energy requirements in a rapidly growing and changing world, achieving sustainable transportation has emerged as a vital mission. EVs represent one of the most promising pathways to increased energy security and reduced emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants. By helping to diversify the fuel mix, EVs reduce dependence on petroleum and tap into a source of electricity that is often domestic and relatively inexpensive. The last three years have seen a remarkable surge in demand for electric vehicles. It is reassuring to note that the market is moving in a direction that will create increasing demand for range extenders and ‘range anxiety’ was confirmed as a key barrier to wider vehicle adoption. LCV operators are also under increasing pressure to minimise emissions and the ability to drive into a large city, operate on electric power and then drive out using auxiliary power provided by a range extender is a highly attractive proposition. Overall, the European market for EVs (and their variants) is expected to reach 6.9 million vehicles by 2020, a market of similar size to China and the US.
A detailed review of competitive IP has been undertaken and this is presented in the feasibility study report. There is a significant amount of existing IP from potential competitors this has been taken into account during formulation of AIE’s strategic business plans. Freedom to operate is recognised as a critical issue in establishing risk, ownership and conditions of IP use. IP and patents relating to CREEV have been presented and discussed with background supporting information.
Finally, a business plan summary is presented which includes the product offering, IP management and strategy, customers and competitors, manufacturing, exploitation and dissemination strategies, resources, access to finance, commercial impact and risk management strategy.
