The Kenworth T370 diesel-electric hybrid truck was featured Monday, Aug. 24, at a press conference held by New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg to discuss the city’s latest green transportation initiatives. The event took place at the Queens District 5 facility operated by the New York Department of Sanitation.
The Kenworth T370 went into service this past spring as the first medium-duty diesel-electric hybrid truck in New York City’s truck fleet. “The Kenworth hybrid truck is already providing cleaner air in the community,” Bloomberg says. “A clean environment is important to our citizens, and clean trucks will play a growing and essential role.”
“Kenworth has a strong commitment to offer industry-leading products that reduce emissions and enhance fuel economy,” says Bill Kozek, general manager of Kirkland, Wash.-based Kenworth and Paccar vice president.
New York City’s Kenworth T370 hybrid is equipped with a stakebed body, Paccar PX-6 engine rated at 240 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque, and the Eaton diesel-electric hybrid power system. The Kenworth hybrid’s assignment is to pick up and deliver supplies and parts for the Department of Sanitation’s various locations throughout the New York City metropolitan area. The department expects to introduce three more Kenworth T370 hybrids into service later this year.
Kenworth hybrids use an integral transmission-mounted motor/generator, frame-mounted 340-volt lithium-ion battery pack and dedicated power management system. Electricity generated through regenerative braking is stored and used for acceleration, assisting the diesel engine. The hybrid system is monitored through an in-dash display. As the power requirements for different driving conditions change, the screen constantly updates the driver on system status.
The Kenworth T270 Class 6 and T370 Class 7 diesel-electric hybrid trucks are for use in pickup-and-delivery, utility and service applications. Kenworth medium-duty hybrid tractors, available up to 55,000-lb GCW, are for local haul applications, including beverage, general freight and grocery distribution. Purchasers of Kenworth hybrid trucks may qualify for a federal tax credit ranging from $6,000 to $12,000.
