They are already a four-wheel staple on the highways, and they are increasingly entering the commercial vehicle market. With fleets looking to reduce costs through greater fuel efficiency and improve their image as environmentally conscious carriers, hybrids are gaining in popularity. Most every medium- and heavy-duty truck manufacturer offers them and while not yet in widespread production, that is changing. Economic incentives such as the Energy Policy Act of 2005, which provides tax credits for hybrid commercial trucks of up to $12,000 per unit, make them that much more financially attractive.
This means they will, sooner rather than later, make their way into the aftermarket support network. Here’s what you can expect in hybrid offerings from major truck manufacturers that are, or soon will be, in production.
Freightliner – Business Class M2e Hybrid
Backed by the technological experience of Daimler AG, a leading manufacturer of hybrid commercial vehicles, the Freightliner Business Class M2e Hybrid is an efficient, economical and ecological choice for stop-and-go operations, says the company.
The Freightliner Business Class M2e Hybrid is said to reduce fuel consumption compared to non-hybrid drivetrain systems. Testing shows a savings of up to 1,500 gallons of fuel per year for typical urban delivery applications, according to the company.
It also is said to significantly lower carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide and particulate emissions, as well as increase engine and brake life by more than 100 percent. The vehicle also is quiet, benefiting neighborhood operation. Mounted equipment, such as buckets and lifts, run from an electric Power Take-Off (ePTO) without noisy idling.
It features the Eaton Hybrid Electric Drive System, a parallel electric hybrid system that enables drivers to either use the diesel engine alone or operate in combination with the hybrid electric motor. The hybrid motor provides additional power to launch the vehicle and improves fuel economy.
The Freightliner Business Class M2e Hybrid can be configured for a variety of applications, including utility, pick up and delivery, beverage, landscape, leasing, government and towing.
