Eaton Corp has been selected to provide hybrid power systems for 50 step-van delivery vehicles made by International Truck and Engine and Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp, to be purchased by the UPS package delivery company.
UPS announced in February 2006 that the first of the 50 vehicles would be placed in Dallas TX in June 2006. UPS expects the vehicles to deliver up to a 35% improvement in fuel economy over its conventionally powered vehicles, in addition to decreases in vehicle emissions.
Eaton's hybrid power system used in both the Freightliner and International chassis will employ an Eaton automated transmission, an integrated motor/generator, and advanced technology batteries. The Freightliner Custom Chassis truck will use a Mercedes-Benz MBE 904 4-cylinder diesel engine, and the International Truck and Engine vehicle will employ an International VT-275 six-cylinder diesel.
In September 2002, Eaton was awarded a $7.1 million contract to lead a project in the Advanced Heavy Hybrid Propulsion System (AHHPS) Program sponsored by the United States Department of Energy and its National Renewable Energy Laboratories (NREL). Through this program, Eaton, in partnership with International Truck and Engine, integrated a heavy hybrid propulsion system for installation in a prototype UPS urban package delivery vehicle.
Eaton will provide its hybrid power systems to Freightliner and International for installation in a standard production line process at the truck makers' plants.