July 7, 2006—The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and UPS have partnered to develop “the world’s most fuel-efficient and cost-effective delivery vehicle,” using EPA’s advanced hybrid hydraulic technology. Based on laboratory tests, this vehicle achieves over 60-70 percent better fuel efficiency in urban driving and 40 percent lower CO2 greenhouse gas emissions.
Laboratory tests show that this hybrid technology has the potential to dramatically improve the fuel economy for package delivery vehicles, shuttle and transit buses, and refuse pickup. More than 1,000 gallons of fuel each year could be saved per vehicle, EPA estimates, and 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 unique hydraulic hybrid propulsion system integrated with the drive axle. Hydraulic motors and hydraulic tanks are used to store energy, in contrast to electric motors and batteries used in electric hybrid vehicles. Like other hybrid systems, energy saved when applying the brakes is reused to help accelerate the vehicle.
For more information on EPA’s hydraulic hybrids or the new delivery truck, visit the EPA Web site.
