Parker Hannifin Corp. and FedEx Ground have announced they will test a Class 6 vehicle deploying hybrid hydraulic technology that they expect will improve fuel mileage by more than 50%, while reducing engine pollution.
The new vehicle will rely on a series hybrid hydraulic drive that eliminates the conventional transmission, along with its weight and maintenance, and improves drivetrain power density, according to Joseph Kovach, Parker Hannifin's vp-technology and innovation for hydraulics. He said a working demo vehicle is projected to be available for FedEx Ground within the next year.
