New military microgrid technology demonstrated

General Dynamics Land Systems Maneuver Collaboration Center (mc(2)), NextEnergy and TM3 Systems have collaborated to demonstrate microgrid technology for defence applications at General Dynamics Land Systems' headquarters in Sterling Heights.

The demonstration saw a General Dynamics Land Systems Electric Drive (eDrive) 8x8 armoured vehicle and a Tactical Modular Mobile MicroGrid (TM3) power system linked together in a configuration to enable remote power generation and distribution. The eDrive vehicle's propulsion system generated electricity that was exported to a modified prototype microgrid system. The resulting microgrid system then stores, converts and distributes the appropriate power output required to support remote military installations and disaster relief efforts. 

The team also successfully powered a command centre during the 100-year anniversary of Camp Grayling on 20 July, demonstrating how microgrid capabilities can help minimise logistics during deployments. 

Sonya Sepahban, senior vice president, engineering, development and technology for General Dynamics Land Systems, said: ‘General Dynamics' mc(2) is about firsts: first in collaboration and first in innovation. This initiative between a small startup, a not-for-profit and a large defence contractor - to integrate an energy-conserving technology on an accelerated development schedule - is certainly a first for the community and a great business model that we intend to replicate.’

Nate Lowery, CEO, TM3 Systems, added: ‘This collaboration was a great opportunity to demonstrate what can happen when an industry leader like General Dynamics Land Systems leverages the unique capabilities of mc(2) to collaborate with innovative organisations like TM3 Systems and NextEnergy. We were able to leverage the strengths of all parties to demonstrate a sophisticated solution in a short period of time and are grateful to the MEDC for its support and to NextEnergy for bringing the team together.’

The team plans to build on this demonstration with the goal of making this capability available for use in the field.