Volvo Testing Hybrid Trash Trucks In Sweden

Two Swedish waste hauling firms are testing Volvo's new hybrid garbage trucks in advance of the company's planned market release in 2009. The trucks offer a 20 percent savings in fuel over Volvo's non-hybrid model.

The hybrid trash truck features a 7.0L diesel-electric powertrain and regenerative braking. The diesel-electric hybrid concept vehicle was first presented in 2006. According to Volvo, the hybrid model is powerful enough to pull a heavy load and is more cost-effective than other alternatives.

The truck uses its electric motor on start-up and for acceleration to 20 kph. The vehicle automatically switches from diesel to electric when the truck stops, providing quiet curbside collection. Regenerative braking, which is ideal for stops and starts, charges a battery pack that runs the truck's compactor unit. This secondary system is also recharged when the truck is parked overnight. The interoperation of the diesel and electric motors could cut CO2 emissions by as much as 30 percent.

The trash truck represents the first of several hybrid heavy vehicles Volvo has planned.