Plug-In Hybrid Trucks in Big Demand
New Plug-In Hybrid Truck System Already Selling Like Hotcakes to Fleet Customers
Ford doesn’t currently manufacture hybrid trucks, but that doesn’t mean there’s no market for them. In fact, a new plug-in hybrid system designed for trucks is already in high demand. According to Green Car Reports, a California utility company recently placed an order for up to 110 of them.
San Diego Gas & Electric intends to acquire the vehicles between 2017 and 2020. With an eye toward the future, the utility company wants to convert 20% of their fleet to alternative fuel. To meet that goal, they’ve already purchased over 30 hybrid bucket trucks.
Hybrid trucks aren’t just good for reducing fuel consumption, either. When repairs are underway, the trucks can operate on battery power and therefore emit no emissions or noise. SDG&E also intends to install 3,500 electric car charging stations across 350 locations in the future.
The new Hybrid truck system, dubbed XLP, is manufactured by XL Hybrids. The beauty of the system is what doesn’t change — the stock drivetrain, exhaust and fuel system. An electric motor and battery pack are installed, yet owners retain the original factory warranty.
The results? Despite adding 650 pounds, the hybrid system reduces fuel consumption by up to 50 percent. Recharging the 10-killowatt battery with a 240-volt AC Level 2 source takes less than an hour. And it’s specifically designed for “half-ton pickup trucks from leading OEMs.”
Deliveries commence in the 4th quarter of 2017. And while a lot of truck enthusiasts may be skeptical of electric power, a hybrid truck system makes a good compromise. Especially for fleet customers, where efficiency and noise are real issues. But don’t expect to see a hybrid F-150 at your local Ford dealership just yet.
