Batteries

One of the key attributes is of the system is the ability to launch all the vehicles under electrical power alone. The success of the Hybrid electric technology is the energy storage device; the lithium-ion batteries. The lithium-ion batteries feature the highest energy density of any available battery technology. In fact, the battery used for this system weighs approximately 110 lbs and is equivalent to 1900 lbs of conventional lead acid batteries. One of the areas that received attention was the redesign and packaging of the hybrid component battery box on all the medium duty products.

The redesigned battery box neatly packages the majority of the unique hybrid components in addition to many of the standard items conventionally located in this area. In more detail the redesigned battery box contains the following: hybrid drive cooler, air tanks, conventional 12 volt batteries, and 340 volt DC to AC inverter, and 12 volt converter are all housed in this space conscious enclosure. Once the cover is installed, the hybrid component battery box neatly hides all these items.

Electric Hybrid Motor

The electrical hybrids in the Peterbilt vehicles feature the Eaton Hybrid Electric System. This system features a hybrid drive unit, which includes a 340 volt motor / generator, an Eaton Ultrashift transmission and an automatic linear clutch actuator. Both of the model 330 and 335, these units feature the PACCAR PX-6 (6.7L) engine mated with the Eaton Hybrid Drive System, which is structured around a 60 HP Hybrid drive Motor/Generator. When the diesel engine is combined with the Hybrid drive unit, the power is boosted to 320Hp and a torque limited 860 ft-lbs torque.

Hydraulic Launch Assist technology works by recovering up to 75 percent of the energy normally lost as heat by the vehicle’s brakes in the form of pressurized hydraulic fluid. This fluid is stored in an on-board accumulator until the driver next accelerates the vehicle. In “fuel economy mode,” savings occur when stored energy is used to launch the vehicle followed seamlessly by power from the primary engine. In “performance mode,” the stored energy is released and blended with engine power at launch. Here, a double-digit savings in fuel economy can still be realized, along with an 18 % improvement in acceleration.

Ideal for refuse applications, the Model 320 was outfitted with a Cummins ISL engine and Eaton Hydraulic Launch Assist system. The truck demonstrated in testing, an impressive 28% improvement in fuel economy, 28% reduction in emissions, and 50% reduction in brake wear. A 28% increased productivity was achieved by blending the hydraulic and engine power together.