21 Aug 08 Utility Truck Firm Introducing Hybrids

Looking to combat increasing gas prices and environmental concerns, an area utilities manufacturer has introduced plug-in hybrid electric vehicles to turn the nation’s utility trucks a little more “green.”

Dueco Inc., a Waukesha-based final-stage utilities manufacturer of Terex-Telelect and Hi-Ranger products that specialize in aerial devices and digger derricks, created the nation’s first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) bucket truck for medium duty trucks to heavy-duty trucks.

Dueco is working in conjunction with Odyne Corp., Hauppauge, N.Y., which specializes in plug-in hybrid technology. With the new technology, utility trucks will be able to offset the disadvantages of using the diesel engine through a rechargeable battery system.

The boom was powered by the diesel engine that would run throughout the work day, consuming fuel and releasing carbon emissions in the process. With these innovations, the utility trucks will save about six to 10 gallons of fuel over an eight-hour work day, releasing fewer carbon emissions, while still having the traditional traits of the previous trucks, like power outlets and air conditioning.

Along with reduced fuel and carbon emissions, Dalum said since the engine will no longer idle while operating, noise levels will also be reduced, allowing workers to better communicate with each other and causing less disturbance to those nearby.

The battery can be charged during off-peak hours, using low-cost energy, in a three-phase, 240-volt outlet. It takes about eight hours to charge, and can be charged via the engine if need be. The battery system addresses other issues as well, like the country’s dependency on petroleum.

While most of the benefits come from the trucks operating on site, there are advantages the system provides while driving as well. There is launch assistance that helps accelerate the vehicle and increases horsepower in conjunction with the diesel engine, and also a regenerate brake system, which helps the vehicle brake, recaptures energy and recharges the battery. Preliminary results in urban driving conditions gauge fuel savings between 15 and 20 percent when driving.

Tags: bucket truck, Heavy DUty Trucks, medium duty trucks, utility trucks