Levant Power allows vehicles to go off-roading for power

A mechanical device that smooths out the effect of traveling on a bumpy road is being presented with a twist. Levant Power, a Massachusetts-based company, is developing shock absorbers that save on fuel consumption by generating electricity. Demonstrated in road tests with a Hummer, the technology can bring down the fuel utilization by 1.5 to 6 percent, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions. Imitating conventional shock absorbers in appearance, the device only includes an extra power cord at one end. The shock absorber uses a specialized manifold and a hydraulic motor coupled with an electric generator to provide damping and harvest otherwise wasted energy. Since it works best on heavy, off-road vehicles, the company is targeting military applications.

hummer shock absorbers

Via: TechnologyReview