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Leaner and greener
Page 61
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Local authority operators, despite their apparent willingness to embrace green technology, have a limited choice. "Following the introduction of Euro-4, most operators appear to be satisfied with this latest generation of engine when it comes to both performance and emissions," says Norman Thoday, MD of commercial operations at Dennis Eagle. "Having launched the Volvo Penta Euro-4 engine range, we will be introducing Euro-5 later this year.
"While Euro-5 engines will meet the emission levels required by next year's impending legislation, by reducing NOx levels from 3.5g/km to 2g/km, engine manufactures are understandably in the process of obtaining full certification in line with the requirements of Euro-5."
Biodiesel is the easiest switch, with most manufacturers' engines able to run on it, Compressed natural gas (CNG) is not yet readily available in the UK and has higher cost implications for municipal operations.
Hybrid vehicles potentially offer
considerable fuel and hence emission savings. The Swedish Energy Agency has granted E700,000 to support Volvo's project to develop hybrid technology in two RCVS. The target is to achieve fuel savings of up to 30%. And next year UK bus operator Arrive will conduct field tests with Volvo doubledeck buses in London.
Volvo's hybrid uses an electric motor for starting accelerating to about 20km/h, with a diesel engine providing power at higher speeds. The diesel also charges the electric motor batteries.
When the brakes are applied, the braking energy is harnessed to recharge the batteries. When the vehicle is at a standstill, in slow-moving traffic and during loading and unloading, only electric power is used.
The hybrid truck could have a future in municipal transport services, such as refuse handling, and local distribution, Because the diesel engine is switched off when the vehicle is at a standstill, it is silent and emits no exhaust gases-a huge benefit, especially in urban areas. Further restrictions on the urban operation of vehicles based on emissions, such as those planned for London, could see demand for such technology extend to other general haulage applications.