Bam calculates that the conversion of one paving machine to batteries will save 150 litres of diesel per working day. This equates to more than 93,000 kilograms of CO₂ and 115,000 grams of nitrogen oxide tailpipe emissions.
Wirtgen and conversion specialist New Electric have replaced the Stage V diesel engine with an electric drive consisting of a fixed battery of 270 kWh and two electric motors. The electric asphalt paver can be used for eight to 10 hours on a fully charged battery. A second 270 KWh battery is supplied to enable the paver to work continuously if required.
Another paving machine manufacturer, Dynapac, is working with a different Dutch contractor on an identical initiative. Dynapac has converted an SD2500CS machine for VolkerWessels subsidiary KWS. After a number of test projects last year, this electric spreading machine will be in full use in KWS projects in 2022.
Both Volker Wessels and Bam are claiming a ‘world first’.
Got a story? Email news@theconstructionindex.co.uk