The United Parcel Service, in conjunction with the EPA, has developed a new type of hybrid vehicle. Using a hydraulic system that stores up energy when the truck brakes, engineers have reduced fuel consumption and vehicle emissions. This summer, UPS will test the vehicle in Detroit. Kevin Niedermier of member station WKSU reports.
(the audio for this story is available for streaming on-line)
The story is also available from The Trucker.
Brown goes green: UPS rolls out hybrid technology on package trucks
WASHINGTON — On the outside, it looks like another big brown delivery box making its daily rounds, but — thanks to a federal government project — it could be the world’s most fuel-efficient and cost-effective truck, and it could be coming soon to a business district or neighborhood near you.
In the series hydraulic hybrid diesel, a high-efficiency diesel engine is combined with a unique hydraulic propulsion system, replacing the conventional drivetrain and transmission. The vehicle uses hydraulic pumps and hydraulic storage tanks to store energy, similar to what is done with electric motors and batteries in hybrid electric vehicles. Fuel economy is increased in three ways: vehicle braking energy is recovered that normally is wasted; the engine is operated more efficiently; and the engine can be shut off when stopped or decelerating.
That's pretty cool. Store up your braking energy MECHANICALLY (crazy!) and then use over and over again.
Of course, this should be great for stop-and-go driving, like the typical UPS driving.
And this also will help qualify UPS for a tax credit.
I believe the technology was developed in Cleveland by Eaton Corporation. Yay Ohio.
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