Delta-Cosworth CatGen automotive gas turbine generator
The Silverstone based company Delta-Cosworth have installed a micro gas turbine range extender in a medium size electric van. This single-shaft recuperated machine develops up to 35Kw to charge the battery and prevent range anxiety. Known as the "catalytic generator" unlike a conventional micro gas turbine this unit uses a special catalytic combustor to reduce emissions and negate the need for any exhaust after-treatment.
Gas turbines were tried in cars back in the 1960s famously by both Chrysler in the USA and Rover in the UK. In more recent times circa 1990s Volvo installed a recuperated gas turbine (HSG40) in an electric vehicle. Several porotypes were built including this amazing Volvo 850 but also a version of the V70 was built. So not an entirely new idea, but the automotive landscape is changing now as the world transitions to lower or even zero carbon propulsion solutions. The automotive gas turbine may make a comeback! More on Volvo and gas turbines.