B.C.-based Edison Motors hones diesel-electric pickup conversion kit

Edison Motors, a British Columbia-based company, is developing a diesel-electric conversion kit for classic pickup trucks, including a 1995 Dodge Ram prototype, to improve fuel efficiency and performance. The company, which already produces diesel-electric logging and semi-trucks, is collaborating with Ontario’s Deboss Garage to refine the technology, targeting a 65.2-kWh battery and 430 hp output while acknowledging regulatory uncertainties." "article": "Edison Motors, a company based in Merritt, British Columbia, is developing a conversion kit to transform diesel-powered pickup trucks into diesel-electric hybrids. The company, founded by loggers and truckers, has already built diesel-electric logging and semi-trucks, including a prototype named Carl, which reduces fuel costs by 30% to 50% while improving power and range. Their latest project involves a 1995 Dodge Ram, adapted with a Cummins 2.8-litre diesel engine powering electric drive axles, and they plan to offer similar kits to owners. The company partnered with Deboss Garage, a custom-car shop in Dunnville, Ontario, to design and test the Ram prototype. The team shared updates through YouTube videos, detailing the truck’s development and performance. Edison Motors also tested a conversion in a Toyota 79-Series Land Cruiser, using dynamometer testing to validate the system’s capabilities. The conversion kit is designed with a 65.2-kWh battery, twin oil-cooled axles for four-wheel drive, and aims for 160 continuous horsepower with a peak of 430 hp and over 15,000 lb-ft of torque. However, the company notes that government regulations may limit them to selling a complete rolling chassis rather than a full retrofit kit. Despite this, they remain optimistic about bringing the technology to market for truck owners seeking efficiency and performance improvements. Edison Motors’ approach addresses the limitations of fully electric trucks in harsh conditions, such as cold weather and heavy loads, by combining diesel reliability with electric efficiency. Their prototypes, including a snow plow and logging truck, demonstrate the versatility of their diesel-electric hybrid systems. The company continues to refine its technology, aiming to provide a practical solution for truck owners who want to reduce fuel costs while maintaining power and durability.