Rolls-Royce hybrid stealth engine to make NATO armored vehicles less detectable

As it turns out, stealth technologies, which are widely used in the creation of modern combat aircraft and ships, may also be in demand to increase the stealth of armored vehicles.

At the Eurosatory exhibition in Paris, the subsidiary of the UK company Rolls-Royce presented the concept of a hybrid diesel engine, made with stealth technology.

The concept is a 10-cylinder version of the 199 series engine used by NATO and is the best-selling tank engine of its class. Hybrid engine power is 1,100 kW (1,475 hp). The battery-powered electric motor will also power advanced weapons systems, including combat lasers.

Stealth technology will give armored vehicles low detectability and low noise when in shelter with the engine off, with the tank's systems powered by the battery rather than the idling engine.

Another advantage is that the engine is quieter at low speeds thanks to a custom Rolls-Royce muffler, and at higher speeds the inclusion of an electric motor alongside the diesel increases acceleration.