Lovably Strange: A $2,000 Chinese Pickup Truck Golf Cart Mashup

A bizarre Chinese pickup truck golf cart hybrid, dubbed the "Awesomely Weird Alibaba Electric Vehicle of the Week," features a golf cart chassis stretched into a flatbed mini-truck with a short bed, drop-down side gates, and a tailgate. It boasts a 72V, 1,500W rear-axle motor, a top speed of 38 km/h, and a 70 km range. The quirky vehicle also includes a laundry basket on the hood, key start, built-in speakers, and an open-air cabin. The price is not specified.

The integration of electric vehicles (EVs) in military operations is gaining traction, driven by the need for sustainable and efficient transportation. The U.S. military is at the forefront of this shift, with various initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and enhancing operational capabilities. This article explores the latest developments in military EV adoption, focusing on the unique applications and the broader implications for the industry.

Hybrid Electric Trucks for the Marine Corps

Mack Trucks has been selected to develop the next-generation Marine Corps Medium Tactical Truck (MTT) with hybrid electric power. This initiative is part of the ongoing MTT program, which seeks to modernize the Marine Corps' vehicle fleet [1]. The hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are designed to offer improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, aligning with the military's sustainability goals.

Electric Battle Tanks and Silent Drive Technology

Hyundai Rotem has introduced a concept for an electric-drive battle tank that can perform the "tank turn" maneuver, a technique popularized by Rivian. This silent, electric tank is designed to enhance stealth and maneuverability on the battlefield [2]. Additionally, General Motors (GM) has unveiled a next-generation tactical vehicle featuring electric drive motors at both the front and rear axles, enabling Silent Drive and Silent Watch technologies to reduce detection [3].

Electric Charging Infrastructure

The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) is installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at military sites across the country. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support the adoption of EVs within the military, ensuring that vehicles can be charged efficiently and sustainably [4]. The DOD's collaboration with various military branches underscores the commitment to transitioning to electric transportation.

Electric Motorcycles and Bicycles

Electric motorcycles and bicycles are increasingly being used in military operations. For example, the U.S. Army is testing electric motorcycles for airdrop use with paratroopers, showcasing their potential for tactical missions [5]. Similarly, the Australian military is using high-powered electric bicycles for scouting missions, highlighting the versatility of these vehicles [6].

The Role of DARPA and GM

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has been actively investing in electric vehicle technologies for military applications. DARPA recently unveiled in-hub electric motors designed for vehicles with military applications, demonstrating the agency's commitment to innovation in this area [7]. Additionally, GM Defense is working on developing battery packs for functional electric military vehicles using the Ultium Platform [8].

Implications for the Industry

The adoption of electric vehicles in military applications presents significant opportunities for the industry. As the U.S. military and other armed forces transition to electric transportation, there will be increased demand for EV components, charging infrastructure, and related technologies. This shift could drive innovation and growth in the EV sector, with potential spillover effects into the broader automotive market.

Conclusion

The integration of electric vehicles in military operations is a trend that is gaining momentum. From hybrid electric trucks to electric battle tanks and charging infrastructure, the military is embracing electric transportation to enhance sustainability and operational efficiency. As these initiatives progress, the EV industry stands to benefit from increased investment and innovation, positioning it for continued growth in the coming years.

References

[1] https://electrek.co/guides/military/
[2] https://electrek.co/guides/military/
[3] https://electrek.co/guides/military/
[4] https://electrek.co/guides/military/
[5] https://electrek.co/guides/military/
[6] https://electrek.co/guides/military/
[7] https://electrek.co/guides/military/
[8] https://electrek.co/guides/military/