The Tropicana division of PepsiCo has added two diesel-electric hybrid Peterbilt trucks to its downtown Chicago operation. The medium-duty vehicles will be leased through Paccar Leasing (PacLease).
According to Olen Hunter, PacLease director of sales & marketing, the trucks are expected to reduce fuel consumption by 35% and greenhouse gas emissions by an equivalent amount.
The Peterbilt Class 7 Model 337 hybrid diesel-electric straight trucks also include a hybrid refrigeration unit from Kidron Body Co. The Ultra Temp units draw power from the truck's powertrain, storing it for later use to maintain ambient temperature in the cargo area.
Powered by a 300-hp. Paccar PX-6 engine providing 660 lbs.-ft. of torque, the hybrids utilize a 6-spd. Eaton hybrid transmission. The trucks' diesel-electric hybrid power system integrates a transmission-mounted 60-hp. electric engine, which can start moving the unit without using the diesel engine. The electric engine assists the diesel when more torque and power for acceleration is needed. The engine works with a frame-mounted, 340-volt lithium-ion battery pack.
