Belgian power shift transmission and hydrodynamic torque converter manufacturer Esco Power has launched its latest Parallel Hybrid Transmission (PHT) unit at this year’s Electric & Hybrid Marine World Expo. The new PHJT100A with HESP20kW/36kW packages is an all-inclusive solution that contains the necessary components and service for parallel hybrid propulsion integration. Developed as the ‘little brother’ of Esco Power’s PHT series of hybrid transmissions, the PHJT100A accepts diesel engines up to 188kW and is available in several ratios. It contains an electromagnetic 24V DC clutch for disengagement of diesel engines, and output can be connected directly to the propulsion line or remotely to a marine gear. According to Bart Van der Helst, sales engineer and project manager for Esco Power’s parallel hybrid systems, the company never intended to develop the unit, but was forced to reconsider the breadth of its product line following numerous customer requests.: “We originally intended our Parallel Hybrid Transmission units to be used in the medium- to high-power range, say 200 to 1,700hp, for inland vessels, yachts and ferries. We never wanted to enter the lower power range of the market because there are so many established players operating within it. However, we started receiving requests from existing and new customers for the lower power ranges – below 200hp – in yachts and pleasure craft, so we developed the PHJT100A with the HESP20 or HESP36 package.”