Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Launched in 2005 for three years, this research program had the ambition of
developing a new design for the organization of urban transport of goods, which,
while improving their efficiency, preserves the quality of life in cities. FIDEUS has
associated numerous partners including vehicle and equipment manufacturers
(Renault Trucks, IVECO, ECA), transporters (DHL and TNT), cities (Lyon,
Hannover, Barcelona) and university laboratories (University of Westminster,
Fraunhofer Institute).
In this context, in January 2008, Renault Trucks tested a vehicle carrying
advanced technical solutions for urban delivery in the Lyon area. This vehicle was
premiered next to Hybrys, an innovative concept-vehicle using hybrid technology.
Renault Trucks developed a delivery vehicle with increased performance in terms of
environment conservation, safety, security and driver comfort.
Designed from a medium duty 190 hp Midlum (12T of GW) with a Euro 4
engine (compatible with the Euro 5 levels applicable in 2009), the vehicle is
characterized by a very low noise level, 3 dB (A) below the regulatory requirements
and a reduced level of polluting emissions, with an added -3 dB(A) when a so-called
“low noise mode” is activated.
In addition, a complete telemetric system (navigation, positioning, identification
of goods by RFID, communication with the base, etc.) informs the driver and the
vehicle when the truck enters an environmental urban zone, the objective for this
prototype vehicle being to demonstrate that it is possible to activate in an active
manner (and passively in the future) functionalities enabling low sound and gaseous
emissions (CO
2
and conventional pollutants).
Finally, the driver's task is facilitated by the ergonomics of on-board commands,
by a system of automatic unlocking of all openings (including those which give
access to loading), of the tailgate, and “no hands” starting by the vehicle's
pushbutton. It also benefits from an electronically controlled parking brake which
enables new functionalities such as an automatic parking mode and an aid for hill
starts to be associated.
The bodywork and its equipment have been specially developed to carry out
loading and unloading operations with ease and with reduced noise levels. The
signaling of the vehicle and the lighting of the work zones have been reinforced; a
camera placed behind linked with backup radars ensures safety during maneuvers.
Renault Truck's Midlum was driven in the Lyon agglomeration, used in real life
conditions by the transporter DHL (Figure 6.16). After Greater Lyon, the vehicle
was also successfully tested in Barcelona in March 2008, for night-time delivery
experiments.
