Hybrid Work Trucks: Preparing for Market Introduction

February 2006

One of the most promising new technologies emerging to meet fuel efficiency and environmental challenges for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles is the hybrid drive system. Hybrid drive systems offer the potential both to increase vehicle fuel efficiency and at the same time to reduce actual vehicle emissions below the level of the engine certification. Hybrid systems also offer the possibility of reduced noise, in some cases electrical power generation, and the promise of reduced maintenance due to lowered brake wear, extended maintenance intervals and reduced engine load or operation time.