EPA and UPS partners to unveil truck
with 60 to 70 percent higher fuel economy
EPA and UPS partnered to develop a UPS truck that
uses EPA-patented hydraulic hybrid technology that can achieve fuel
efficiency by 60-70 percent in urban driving and lower greenhouse
gas emissions by 40 percent.
“EPA and our partners are not just delivering
packages with this UPS truck – we are delivering environmental
benefits to the American people,” said EPA Administrator Stephen
L. Johnson.
Laboratory tests show that this technology has
the potential to dramatically improve fuel economy for package delivery
vehicles, buses, and refuse pickup.
More than 1,000 gallons of fuel each year could
be saved per vehicle. EPA estimates that upfront costs for the hybrid
components could be recouped in fewer than three years for a typical
delivery vehicle. The net savings over the vehicle’s lifespan
could exceed $50,000, assuming current fuel prices.
The vehicle features a full hydraulic hybrid powertrain
and a hydraulic hybrid propulsion system integrated with the drive
axle. Hydraulic motors and hydraulic tanks are used to store energy.
Like other hybrid systems, energy saved when applying the brakes
is reused to help accelerate the vehicle.
This partnership is occurring through Cooperative
Research and Development Agreements, which Congress established
to facilitate technology transfer of patented inventions from national
laboratories to industry and the marketplace. Partners on the project
are Eaton Corp., UPS, International Truck and Engine Corp., U.S.
Army – National Automotive Center, and Morgan-Olson. Major
technical support was provided by FEV Engine Technology Inc. and
Southwest Research Institute. |
