DENTON, Texas (November 9, 2007) – Peterbilt Motors Company announced it will showcase its Class 8 hybrid electric vehicle – the Model 386 – in conjunction with the SmartWay of Going Green Seminar Thursday, November 15, 2007 at the Ontario Trucking Association Convention.
“Peterbilt leads the way in the development of hybrid solutions in the heavy duty market with our Model 386 hybrid electric for customers as they battle higher fuel costs and place a greater emphasis on environmental stewardship,” says Bill Jackson, Peterbilt General Manager and PACCAR Vice President.
Heavy Duty Hybrid Electric Technology
The Model 386 Heavy-Duty Hybrid, a joint-development vehicle with Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Eaton, utilizes a hybrid electric system for long-haul applications for both on-road and idle reduction fuel efficiency gains. On the road, the expected fuel savings is 5-7% through improved launching, accelerating and hill climbing capabilities. When the idle reduction mode is active, engine operation is limited to battery charging, an automatically controlled process that takes approximately five minutes per hour to fully charge the system. During rest periods, a 90% reduction in idling has been achieved while providing high-power A/C, 120VAC, and 12VDC to accommodate the sleeper hotel loads.
PACCAR Inc, Peterbilt’s parent company, and Eaton Corporation recently announced they have entered into an exclusive agreement to jointly develop proprietary hybrid technology for heavy-duty commercial vehicles in North America. The innovative new products will be introduced in Peterbilt Class 8 trucks for the North American market, targeted for initial production by the end of 2009.
Peterbilt SmartWay Eligible Vehicles
Peterbilt’s two most aerodynamic trucks, the Models 387 and 386, have been recognized as fuel efficient and environment friendly by the Environmental Protection Agency’s SmartWay program. The program establishes a comprehensive set of fuel-saving, low-emission equipment specifications for new Class 8 long-haul tractors and trailers. Peterbilt’s SmartWay compliant vehicles offer customers fuel savings of between 10 and 20 percent, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and significantly reduced NOx, particulate matter and other air pollutants.
The premium Model 387 is designed for superior aerodynamic efficiency. The integrated cab and sleeper, rounded crown of the grille, dramatically sloped hood and fenders as well as a contoured sunvisor and roof fairing all contribute to the Model 387’s fuel-efficient performance. The Model 386 blends conventional Peterbilt styling with advanced technology and fuel efficient aerodynamic performance. A dramatically sloped hood, swept-back fenders, a contoured bumper and sunvisor as well as optional roof fairings and side trim tabs enhance aerodynamic efficiency.
Peterbilt Motors Company, a division of PACCAR Inc (Nasdaq: PCAR), manufactures premium quality trucks for a wide range of markets, including over-the-road, construction, municipal and medium-duty. Based in Denton, Texas, Peterbilt combines classic styling, innovative design and superior-quality features in a custom-engineered truck that stands as the "Class" of the industry. Through its 225-plus North American dealer locations, Peterbilt also provides a comprehensive array of TruckCare® aftermarket support programs, including preventive maintenance plans, expedited QuickCare services, automated parts inventory replenishment and 24/7 complimentary Customer Assistance through 1-800-4-PETERBILT. For more information about Peterbilt, visit http://www.peterbilt.com.
