IC Corp. announced that it is launching a new line of hybrid commercial buses. The new buses can be powered by hybrid diesel-electric engines that are claimed to provide significant improvement in fuel efficiency.
"Hybrid buses provide two distinct advantages," said Michael Cancelliere, Vice President and General Manager of IC Corp.. "With its reduced fuel use and emissions, it is environmentally friendly. Secondly, a significant increase in fuel efficiency can dramatically improve the bottom line of many businesses."
IC Corp. launched its new line of commercial buses this summer. The new bus line is claimed to be the mid-size bus industry's only line of integrated buses – meaning that the chassis and body are built to work together for enhanced performance and durability. The buses are targeted for use by various vocations, including small to mid-size transit agencies, municipalities, and other shuttle applications such as hotels, universities and tour companies. Each of the bus models caters to specific industry needs and will soon be available as hybrid buses.
IC Corp.'s new commercial bus line will include: a new low-floor bus (LC Series) built specifically for easy accessibility; a new medium-duty bus (HC Series); a new front-engine transit bus model (FC Series); and a new rear-engine transit bus model (RC Series). The hybrid bus line features Enova System's post-transmission 80kW (peak) Hybrid Drive System and was extensively tested and evaluated at IC Corp.'s research and technology facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
The powertrains for the hybrid buses will couple either the International® DT 466 diesel engine or the International® VT 365 diesel engine with the 80kW hybrid-electric powertrain, incorporating a transmission, batteries and an electric motor. The system is based on a parallel architecture, allowing the system to utilize both diesel and electric power in a highly efficient manner. The system recovers kinetic energy during regenerative braking, charging the batteries while the bus is slowing down.
