While visiting the Green Summit this weekend I came across this plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) on display from  Arizona Public Service. Dueco and the Odyne Corporation partnered up and developed this PHEV which they call the Terex Hi-Ranger Telescopic Material Handling Aerial Device to minimize fuel use and emissions. This vehicle uses less fuel on the road with the assistance of a electric propulsion system and while working on-site the engine does not run. All of the boom hydraulic functions and climate control systems can work a full 8 hours without the assistance of the diesel engine. This significantly reduces fuel consumption, noise, and emissions from these vehicles that would usually spend a significant amount of the day idling. The manufacturer claims that fuel costs are cut in half compared to non-hybrid models, and a similar hybrid system from International Truck and Eaton have shown a 40% - 60% drop in fuel consumption in real world tests. The plug-in cabability saves even more fuel over other hybrid systems because it can offset fuel use with inexpensive grid power. Obviously this equals a significant drop in fuel consumption and costs.

Here are some specs of this bucket utility truck:

• Diesel Engine, 255 HP, 660lb Torque
• Aerial lift, 0 emissions on 8 hour operating time
• Battery Capacity = 35 KWh
• Plug-in recharge time = 8 hours
• On Board Power Charger = 5kW, 240 VAC
• Diesel Powered Recharge Capability
• Motor size 50 kW, Regen & Traction assist
• Electric air conditioning 20,000 Btu
• Power Generation = 30 kW continuous, 75 kW peak
• Payload = 7,500 lbs