Navistar Offers Hybrid Commercial Trucks

Navistar has expanded its line of diesel-electric hybrid large trucks to include the International DuraStar Hybrid tractor. According to the company, the new hybrid tractor can save the operator 20% to 25% on fuel consumption for standard city driving. In addition to savings on fuel, the trucks produce one-third less hydrogen and about 35% less nitrogen oxide emissions than conventional diesel tractors, equivalent to CO2 reductions of between 11 and 16.5 tons per truck per year.

The new truck design uses an electric motor situated between the clutch and the transmission, as well as regenerative braking to provide a boost during startup and acceleration. The modifications make the truck especially useful for city delivery applications. The design was supplied by the Eaton Corporation and is meant for use in beverage delivery, emergency, government, landscaping, delivery, recovery, utility and waste collection applications.

The hybrid also qualifies for tax incentives of up to $12,000 depending upon the size of the truck.