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Souder, International Truck Help Launch New Hybrid

World’s First Hydraulic Hybrid UPS Truck Enjoys Fuel Efficiencies

U.S. Rep. Mark Souder participated in a press conference today announcing the world’s first hydraulic hybrid United Parcel Service (UPS) truck.  Souder joined Dee Kapur, President of the Truck Division of International Truck and Engine Corporation, whose Fort Wayne facility was responsible for integrating the design of the innovative new vehicle, and others at the event, which was held at the headquarters of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

“The design integration work completed by International Truck in Fort Wayne was a major contribution to this innovative project, and we should be proud of this employer’s great work,” Souder said.  “Because of its reduced fuel consumption, the hybrid truck not only reduces operating costs, but it also helps decrease our nation’s reliance on foreign oil.  This kind of innovation is exactly what we need to see more of from American companies.”

According to lab estimates, the new UPS truck achieves 60 to 70 percent better fuel economy (using 1,000 fewer gallons of fuel per year than current trucks), and emits at least 40 percent fewer greenhouse gases.  The truck’s fuel efficiency permits the additional cost of the new hybrid technology to be recouped in less than three years.

By using hydraulic tanks instead of batteries, the hybrid truck’s brake system stores energy in a different way than conventional trucks.  The technology is best-suited for customers (such as UPS) whose trucks perform multiple stops, thus using the truck’s brakes continuously, and maximizing energy storage.

Also participating in the event were the other project partners: representatives of the EPA, UPS, the Army, and Eaton Fluid Power.  (Eaton has a plant in Auburn that employs around 500 people.)

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