Cleantech startup eCAMION combats GHG emissions with its smart energy system

Cleantech startup eCAMION combats GHG emissions with its smart energy system

eCAMION is a leading provider of smart energy storage systems. The Ontario startup’s major goal is to design energy storage technology that reduces harmful emissions and contributes to a healthier environment. eCAMION’s modular batteries were originally developed for smart-grid Community Energy Storage, and early projects in partnership with Toronto Hydro proved the efficiency of the system.

With its sights set on anti-idling applications, eCAMION has modified its proprietary units, scaling the system below 10 kilowatt-hours to develop the eCAMION Auxiliary Power Unit (eAPU), which is ideal for heavy-duty vehicle applications. Traditionally, a vehicle’s lights, tools and cabin climate have been powered and maintained by the vehicle’s engine or a generator. New technologies, like eCAMION’s battery system, offer cost-effective alternatives that eliminate the need to burn fossil fuels and reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) and other harmful emissions.

Smart design

eCAMION’s energy storage systems are designed to be safe, smart and able to withstand many demanding applications. The units are modular and scalable, and are available in a number of capacities, depending on the vehicle and equipment that require power. eCAMION is able to harness maximum power with the system by optimizing new battery chemistries and repurposing vehicle batteries. Each unit has an integrated battery management system, advanced electronics and intelligent controls to maintain its safe operation.

Power from a partnership with PowerStream

eCAMION recently engaged in a demonstration of its eAPU with PowerStream, a community-owned energy company. Pilots with both a traditional cube van and a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter were conducted over six months, with the eAPU running all emergency lights and tools. In each case, the batteries were recharged three ways: via solar panels on the truck’s roof; via the truck’s alternator; or via a connection to the electricity grid.

PowerSteam
PowerSteam pilot truck with eCAMION eAPU

Initial results show that eCAMION’s system saved approximately eight tonnes of CO2 emissions per vehicle. PowerStream also saw a cost reduction of $3,000 per vehicle in maintenance and fuel savings, with a resulting payback of between one and three years depending on the vehicle’s hours of use.

Carmine Pizzurro, president and CEO of eCAMION, commented: “PowerStream has truly demonstrated innovation and leadership to help develop a new solution for their fleet. Using eCAMION’s eAPU on-board power system has ensured that these new vehicles do not require a generator and that they have a solution that is more environmentally responsible and creates less noise.”

The long haul

Going forward, eCAMION’s eAPU system has applications in a number of areas, including police services, emergency medical services, utilities, long- and short-haul trucking, contracting and many more. The system can also be used to support the deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure by creating easy access and time-managed charging, and by helping to mitigate challenges with numerous electric vehicles charging at the same time.

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