The number of owners and operators of Navistar’s hybrid-powered commercial vehicles is growing as hybrid trucks and buses become more and more attractive to businesses looking to “green” their fleets and improve fuel economy.
In fact, the popularity of these hybrid vehicles has helped Navistar become the first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to accumulate more than 5 million real-world miles in the hands of customers driving hybrid-powered International trucks and IC Bus brand school and commercial buses.
In less than two years, Navistar has established itself as a leader in hybrid technology. In November 2007, Navistar launched the Class 6 medium-duty International DuraStar Hybrid, becoming the first OEM to enter assembly-line production of hybrid commercial trucks.
Building on the success of that platform, Navistar expanded its hybrid product portfolio in October 2008 with the Class 7 International DuraStar Hybrid Tractor, targeting general freight haulers and food/beverage distributors with diminishing loads. This past March, Navistar introduced the Class 7 severe-service International WorkStar Hybrid 4x4, a hybrid four-wheel-drive commercial truck.
Depending on the specific application and other conditions, International hybrid trucks can deliver up to 40% fuel savings in stop-and-go driving and pick-up/delivery operations. The hybrid trucks produce zero emissions when auxiliary equipment (such as an overhead utility bucket) operates solely on the truck’s hybrid battery power.
