The XL3 hybrid electric drive system from XL Hybrids is now available on additional vehicles, the company announced.
The system can now be added to General Motors 3500/4500 cutaway and cab chassis, beginning with model-year 2011 vehicles. For fleets that use FTA funding, the XL3 can be purchased by transit agencies for less than $5,000, and is the lowest cost hybrid system offering a payback in less than two years, the company said.
The lineup of available vehicles with the XL3 system includes the Ford E350/E450 cutaway and cab chassis and the new Ford Transit passenger van.
“Adding the new GM cutaway solidifies our position as the only hybrid electric powertrain provider that offers a single solution to fleets using Class 2-4 vehicles from the major OEMs like Ford and GM,” said Clay Siegert, vice president and co-founder of XL Hybrids. “With this new product, XL Hybrids covers more than 75% of the shuttle bus market, where fleet vehicles drive high mileage on low mpg routes.”
The XL3 Hybrid System is compatible with all available wheelbases offered by bus manufacturers, including GM cutaway single and double rear wheels. The XL3 can be installed as a retrofit or a new upfit for 4.8L and 6.0L gas engines providing up to 20% fuel and CO2 savings, XL Hybrids said.
The system adds less than 400 lbs. to the vehicle, and is designed for the added weight to be evenly distributed allowing for better axle loading. The GM OEM factory warranty stays intact, while the XL3 hybrid powertrain components are covered by a three-year, 75,000 mile warranty.
