For nearly three decades, the electric power systems developed by BAE Systems’ Electronic Systems sector have been on the move. Energizing nearly 20,000 – and counting – heavy-duty vehicles worldwide.
These electric power systems have not only transformed the way vehicles operate but also opened new possibilities for operational flexibility in both commercial and military spaces. As the world continues to push the boundaries of electric propulsion, it’s exciting to explore the wide range of benefits and applications that these modular power systems can offer that go beyond propulsion. That’s where onboard and exportable power comes into the picture.
There are many advantages to electric technology including: quieter operation, reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, and increased efficiency. These benefits apply across both commercial and military applications, each with its own unique opportunities.
Vehicles are quieter, reducing their detection risk, and rely less on fuel logistics which can be challenging and expose personnel to danger. Instant torque and smooth performance improve maneuverability, while modular electric systems can be tailored to meet specific mission requirements—enhancing operational capabilities such as silent watch and increased drive power to climb hills or pull heavy-loads.
In addition to these benefits, BAE Systems is now demonstrating the concept of both onboard and exportable electric power, which extends these advantages beyond vehicle movement to deliver adaptable, on-demand energy for a wide range of applications and mission needs. Export power draws electricity from the vehicle to run tools and equipment offboard, while onboard power supports accessories and systems directly on the vehicle.
One of the most exciting aspects of our electric systems is the capability to provide a reliable energy source for advanced military applications, including radar and defense systems, weapon systems that require high-power density, and exportable power for tactical microgrids, command and control systems, and other mission-critical infrastructure. By eliminating the need for additional generators and fuel logistics, these systems enable military units to operate with greater versatility, safety, and effectiveness in remote or austere environments, revolutionizing the way strategic maneuvers are conducted.
While these capabilities provide critical advantages in security missions, the same exportable power can release a wide range of practical uses in the commercial sector, allowing the vehicle to supply reliable energy for tools and equipment across vocational applications. Exportable power systems eliminate the need for additional onboard diesel-fired generators, reducing complexity, fuel consumption, and weight—ultimately increasing vehicle efficiency.
These systems provide the electricity needed for welding machines, air compressors, ventilation systems, blowers, vacuums, and a wide range of other devices, essentially turning the truck into a mobile worksite. This capability is particularly valuable for utility trucks, service vehicles, and municipal fleets where on-site power is often limited or unavailable. Our onboard power solutions help drive a vehicle’s own systems—for example, on a sanitation truck, they can drive bin lifts, waste compactors, and other mechanical equipment.
The integration of onboard and exportable power provides unprecedented capability and performance for be commercial and military vehicles alike. From powering critical systems on the battlefield to supporting tools and functions in the commercial field, this technology enables teams to achieve more with improved outcomes, speed, and impact. With BAE Systems’ compact and lightweight design, high-power density, and advanced materials, our proven technology is poised to play a key role as the backbone of modern commercial and defense operations — transforming vehicle performance and unlocking new possibilities.
By Carol Gorenflo, Communications