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HYBRID TECH NOLO

23rd October 2008
Page 45
Page 45, 23rd October 2008 — HYBRID TECH NOLO
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Many people believe hybrid technology electric/diesel driveiines is the most workable long-term approach for operators that wish to go green. There are some early models on the market the Fuse Canter is one being tidied by a host of operators across London and in principle hybrids offer great efficiencies.

Power can be recaptured from the exhausts and brakes; electric start-stop technologies and battery power can save up to 30% of fuel [n dense urban areas; and out on trunk roads, the diesel engine gets to do what it does best sweet-spot running at consistent speeds.

But there are still snags. Above 7,5 tonnes, hybrid technology is less attractive on general haulage, although local distribution and garbage trucks offer greater opportunities. Emissions technology has already added to the weight of vehicles and hybrid technology adds even more, so payload will become an issue unless we find lighter weight materials.

There is one another type of hybrid worth watching for the future: gas/diesel combinations. Clean Air Power (www.cleanairpower.com) and Hardstaff (www. hardstaffgroup.co.uk) are both working on these dual-fuel conversions.

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