SAE Commercial Vehicle Engineering Congress (COMVEC)

SwRI will be exhibiting at SAE Commercial Vehicle Engineering Congress (COMVEC), booth no. 113.

Please join us for the following presentations:

Wednesday, Sept. 17

11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
“Optimizing Hybrid Powertrains for Off-highway Vehicles,” Pruthvi Bachu

This presentation will discuss the development of a plug-in hybrid electric powertrain for a wheel loader, demonstrating a 48% reduction in CO₂ and 84% reduction in NOₓ emissions compared to a conventional engine. The approach combined system modeling, engine testing, and cost analysis to optimize performance under real-world duty cycles.

1:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
“Alternative Fuels and Hybridization as Cost-Effective Pathways to Medium Duty Greenhouse Gas Phase 3 Compliance,” Shubham Patil

This presentation will cover cost-effective strategies for meeting the US EPA Greenhouse Gas Phase 3 standards in heavy-duty trucks, focusing on the use of alternative fuels like CNG and LPG combined with powertrain hybridization. Simulation results from a medium heavy-duty truck model will be presented, illustrating how hybrid configurations and low rolling resistance tires enable compliance with stringent GHG regulations while minimizing payload trade-offs. The presentation will highlight practical pathways for manufacturers to achieve environmental targets and reduce operational costs through innovative vehicle technologies.

Thursday, Sept. 18

10:30 a.m. – Noon
“CV407 Powertrain: Alternative power solutions evaluation for high-horsepower off-highway applications,” Ryan Williams, panel moderator

This panel will discuss the viability of various biofuels such as biodiesel, renewable diesel, methanol, ethanol and such alongside the relevance of hybrids as alternative powertrain technologies. The session will also focus on the technical barriers including energy density, power output, refueling infrastructure, emissions control technologies and lifecycle costs. By exploring these facets, the panel aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the alternate pathways for high-horsepower powertrains in off-highway applications.

At Southwest Research Institute, we specialize in developing and enhancing transportation systems and components for the commercial vehicle and off-highway industries. Our expert team analyzes, designs, and develops advanced emissions and automotive systems, including battery electric systems, engine systems, and cutting-edge control systems tailored for heavy-duty applications. We address complex performance challenges through comprehensive evaluations and advanced analytical services, ensuring our solutions meet and exceed industry standards. Additionally, we create new engine and battery system concepts, seamlessly integrating customer or SwRI intellectual property into your design from early technology development to full-scale production and validation. Our history of research and innovation since 1947 drives us to deliver robust, reliable solutions that enhance the performance and efficiency of your commercial and off-highway vehicles and machines. Trust Southwest Research Institute to propel your operations to the next level with groundbreaking technology and industry-leading expertise.

For more information, please contact Chris Bitsis