PACCAR has targeted the goal of 30 percent improvement in vehicle fuel efficiency for selected medium-duty trucks under the Kenworth and Peterbilt nameplates over the next seven years utilizing hybrid technology as a key contributor to achieving this objective. This global hybrid program is aimed at commercializing advanced vehicle energy management systems. PACCAR design engineers are working with Eaton's Hybrid Power Systems business unit to advance the company's hybrid leadership position.
"Availability of hybrid-powered PACCAR trucks is targeted for 2008 in defined medium-duty applications," said Jim Cardillo, PACCAR senior vice president. "PACCAR's premium vehicles and technology leadership worldwide will deliver cost-effective solutions that provide significant value to our customers."
"We're thrilled to be a part of PACCAR's pioneering efforts in developing hybrid power systems, and we look forward to delivering hybrid vehicles in selected applications in 2008," added Jim Sweetnam, senior vice president and president of Eaton's Truck Group.
In over-the-road applications, hybrid power systems store energy to be used while the vehicles are stationery. "PACCAR's innovative onboard energy management systems will reduce vehicle idling time to further enhance operating efficiency and contribute to achieving customers' fuel economy objectives," said Tom Plimpton, PACCAR president. "The Kenworth Clean Power and Peterbilt Comfort Class systems are scheduled for release in 2007 and maintain the vehicle's cabin temperatures at comfortable levels and provide power to operate other cab electrical systems without running the engine. Based on the national average of 1,850 idling hours per year for an over-the-road Class 8 vehicle, the system provides the potential for an eight percent improvement in fuel efficiency, worth several thousand dollars per vehicle each year."
