The New York City Parks Dept. has placed into service 17 Kenworth diesel-electric T370 hybrids as part of its goal to reach 72% of its fleet vehicles operating on alternative fuel by the end of 2010.
“Sixty-four percent of our fleet of vehicles is already running on some sort of alternative fuel,” said Keith Kerman, assistant commissioner for the Parks Dept. “Some are even all electric, a few vehicles are solar powered, and many are CNG and hybrid powered. By the end of 2010, we’re projected to be up to 72%.”
Eight of the Kenworth vehicles are equipped with rack bodies and lift gates and the rest with 5-yd. dump bodies. The trucks were purchased through Gabrielli Kenworth.
“The Kenworth T370 hybrids already in service are working great and preliminary results show we’re reducing fuel consumption by up to 40%,” said Kerman. “We’ll have concrete results after a year, but we’re very pleased with results to date. They’re also great looking trucks – drivers love them, plus we are working on this in partnership with our sister agencies, especially Sanitation.”
The trucks are equipped with a Paccar PX-6 engine rated at 240 hp. and 660 lbs.-ft. of torque. An Eaton diesel-electric hybrid power system with integral transmission-mounted motor/generator and frame-mounted 340-volt lithium-ion battery pack provide the power.
Electricity generated through regenerative braking is stored and used for acceleration, assisting the diesel engine.
“The Kenworth T370 hybrid dump trucks are targeted to haul dirt, sand and clay to ball fields, as well as for general assignment work,” Kerman said. “The T370s with rack bodies are our do-all vehicle and can support a wide range of park activities – from pruning to general maintenance. The hybrids are especially attractive since there is so much stop-and-go activity with the vehicles.”
