Peterbilt Motors Co. announced at the Mid-America Trucking Show Wednesday, March 21, its progress in developing a full range of vehicles equipped with advanced hybrid technologies that increase fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and improve service requirements.
The company also introduced its proprietary anti-idling system and a new Driver Information Display, and said that its 2008 heavy-duty and medium-duty models, introduced a year ago at MATS, are in full production.
“Peterbilt’s hybrid initiatives include development of both medium- and heavy-duty vehicle platforms and for both on-highway and vocational applications,” said Bill Jackson, Peterbilt general manager and Paccar vice president.
“Peterbilt is actively developing and testing four distinct hybrid technology vehicle applications,” says Peterbilt Chief Engineer Landon Sproull.
The four vehicle platforms are:
The heavy-duty hybrid electric Model 386 is being developed with Eaton and Wal-Mart Stores Inc. It is expected to be commercially available in 2010. The Eaton Hybrid Power System has routinely achieved a 5 percent to 7 percent fuel savings versus comparable, non-hybrid models.
Peterbilt’s idling alternative, the ComfortClass system, will be available as a factory-installed option by mid-year. The new battery-based system provides heating, cooling and 110-volt electrical power for up to 10 hours without the need for the engine to run.
ComfortClass will be available for Class 8 vehicles equipped with a 70-inch Unibilt sleeper.
The improved Driver Information Display presents more operational information and is easier to use, the company said.
