Why the U.S. Army May Soon Rally Behind EVs
The United States Army could reap major benefits from using electric vehicles. The U.S. military invests millions into state-of-the-art technology that helps them better protect America. It’s no surprise that EVs are of interest to the Army because of their potential. But how does the U.S. Army plan on using EVs?
Does the U.S. military use electric vehicles?
The United States Army is currently still testing electric vehicles for practicality. The Army is extremely interested in EV technology as the vehicle tech of the future. It recognizes that the country is moving away from fossil fuels and sees advantages to using EVs over vehicles powered by diesel.
The Army currently has multiple contracts with companies to work on the next fleet of fully electric and hybrid military vehicles. Using vehicles with electric powertrains has many tactical advantages for military vehicles. EVs are quieter than vehicles that burn fossil fuels. They can also tow, climb and accelerate at lowers speeds than other engines because of their torque.
Will tanks go electric?
Electrifying battle tanks could save lives if the Army chooses to explore that option. Refueling battle tanks is extremely dangerous and tedious because tanks currently use liquid fuel. If battle tanks used hybrid or fully electric powertrains, they would not have to refuel as often, and soldiers wouldn’t have to take as many risks to keep battle tanks operational.
U.S. Army armored divisions can consume hundreds of thousands of gallons of fuel daily. Not only is this bad for the environment, but it also creates more hazards and work for the Army. Electrifying military vehicles will create easier long-term repairs because electric motors are simpler than internal combustion engines. If tanks do go electric, they will be much more efficient.
Why the U.S. Army will electrify its fleet of vehicles
Automakers are slowly introducing electric vehicles into lineups. It is only natural that the U.S. military will adopt the same practices and attitude toward burning fossil fuels. The military utilizes as many technological advancements as possible to function at maximum efficiency.
The U.S. Army would like to begin incorporating EVs into their fleet, but unfortunately, the technology is still limited in many ways. Many U.S. military vehicles run on jet fuel, so the conversion isn’t as simple as it is with the automotive industry. General Motors company GM Defense is working hard to provide plenty of fully electric and hybrid powertrain options for the Army.
The U.S. Army may not be fully committed to electrifying all of its vehicles yet, but the possibilities that these new vehicles offer are hard to ignore. Electric military vehicles could help ease the burdens of the brave people that fight to protect the United States of America. When it comes to refueling, electric military vehicles could even save lives by eliminating an unnecessary process. EV technology is changing the world for the better, one full charge at a time.
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