26.05.2008
Linde MH sets out strategy for innovative drive technology
Dwindling oil reserves, more stringent exhaust gas standards and global competition mean that drive technologies will have to be redeveloped for the future.
However, when and which technical solution will be the most efficient cannot yet be determined for definite. That is why Linde Material Handling is adopting several different approaches, with the aim of creating the largest potential for the use of trucks.
The main focus of the research carried out in close collaboration with its partners, are hybrid vehicles as well as trucks with hydrogen engines and fuel cells. The development of both of these technologies will be intensively promoted over the coming years, so that they are fully developed and ready when they can be used competitively. "However", emphasises Theodor Maurer, member of the Management Board at Linde MH, "We also need strategies and specific solutions for the near future. This is why we are working intensely to further improve conventional drives with combustion and electrical engines. With this combined strategy, we are continuing to expand our position as a technological leader."
Specialists from the industrial and research sector are expecting the first hydrogen technology series products to be launched in the vehicle sector between 2015 and 2020. In the meantime, toxic emissions and energy consumption are expected to be reduced further with hybrid concepts and the improvement of conventional engines. At the same time, the proportion of hydrogen that is produced in an environmentally-friendly way is expected to continuously increase and the infrastructure is set to develop.
