Swedish BAE Systems subsidiary Hagglunds AP revealed its electric military vehicle at the recent Eurosatory military equipment exhibition in Paris. The SEP (Spitterskyddad Enhets Platform) Modular Armoured Tactical System uses an electric transmission system and a host of interchangeable mission modules.

Using an electrical transmission system means better fuel efficiency, reduced life-cycle costs, and reduced environmental impact for the vehicle. It also makes the vehicle stealthier, because the batteries are integrated into the electric drive system. This allows the vehicle to run on its silent battery with the engines shut off, for several hours. The vehicle also leaves lower thermal, visual, and radar signatures, allowing it to creep up on a target with less chance of detection.

The electric drive and electric gearbox add a flexibility to the vehicle not seen in traditional diesel-powered military vehicles. In the 6x6 wheeled rig Hagglunds tested, drivers can control each wheel individually. This unique capability allows the vehicle to pivot its axis, making for quicker, sharper turns. An 8X8 version is under development and should be completed by the end of the 2006.

The U.S. Army has also toyed with the idea of electric-diesel-powered vechiles. Congress passed a bill late last year to fund the development of hybrid military vehicles. The first mass-produced military hybrids will most likely be in the Future Combat Systems family, which should enter production around 2010.