Hydraulic Hybrid
Peterbilt Motors Co. and Eaton Corp. displayed a Peterbilt Model 320 spec’d for refuse applications using an Eaton Hydraulic Launch Assist (HLA) system at the Hybrid Truck Users Forum in Kalamazoo, MI.
“HLA can be quickly tailored for maximum fuel economy or enhanced productivity through quicker acceleration and shorter cycle times. Additionally, the system increases brake life and reduces engine and transmission wear, potentially extending component life and lowering service costs,” said Peterbilt chief engineer Craig Brewster.
The OEM has observed the system reducing brake wear by 50%. The system requires no operator training to use and it incorporates common hydraulic-based technology, Peterbilt said.
The Eaton system uses a hydraulic accumulator to store deceleration energy that subsequently is used to aide acceleration.