Electric Hybrids for Class 8 Trucks

Hyliion, Pittsburgh, Pa., which manufactures hybrid Class 8 vehicle systems, has announced the 6X4HE system for long-haul trucks.  Designed to be installed on new or retrofitted on existing trucks, the Hyliion System uses hybrid electrification to deliver fuel savings, lower emissions, instant telematics and a better driver experience. Mesilla Valley Transportation, PAM Transport and Ryder all participated in testing and refining the 6X4HE, Hyliion said.

The 6X4HE id designed to be attached to the truck frame and is a self-contained system. The company said fuel savings of up to 30% are a blend of three technologies:  15% from electric hybrid, 12% from APU, and 3% from aerodynamics.

Regenerative braking captures power when slowing down then electric power is applied when necessary to keep diesel engines at their most efficient speed delivering hybrid-like fuel savings. The APU leverages Hyliion’s proprietary cooling system and battery to deliver 18,000 BTUs for 10 hours on a single charge.  In addition, two outlets provide electricity in the cab.  The 6X4HE is also Shore Power enabled, Hyliion said. 

This is the second product announcement from Hyliion.  The first which occurred a year ago was a trailer based product.  “After our trailer product announcement last year, fleets came to us and asked to have the technology put on trucks.  We listened and focused our efforts to first deliver the 6X4HE System with an innovative APU,” stated Thomas Healy, Hyliion CEO.  “The technology we designed into the trailer product plus a different approach to an APU is now available for Class 8 trucks.”

Hyliion is currently taking orders for the 6X4HE with production starting November 2017.

For more information, visit http://www.hyliion.com.