XL Hybrids, Inc., a developer of hybrid electric powertrain technology for commercial fleets, said its XL3 Hybrid Electric Drive System is now available on the Reach commercial van from Isuzu and Utilimaster.
As the first diesel-powered vehicle with the XL3 powertrain, the Reach will appeal to national delivery service companies, public sector and corporate fleets that are seeking ways to reduce fuel consumption and meet sustainability goals.
“XL Hybrids’ philosophy is to be nimble with our strategic direction and technology development,” said Tod Hynes, president and founder of XL Hybrids. “Our customers are asking us to expand our platforms because they see immediate savings with a 25 percent increase in miles per gallon. In addition to 20 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, the technology has a quick adoption rate for fleets since there’s no need for special plugs, charging or fueling infrastructure.”
The revolutionarily simple XL3 Hybrid Electric Drive System saves fuel through regenerative braking, a process by which the electric motor helps slow the vehicle when the driver brakes, charging the battery. When the driver accelerates, the battery releases the energy to the electric motor, helping propel the vehicle.
Special financing options are available to XL Hybrids’ customers to retrofit current fleet vehicles and pay for the hybrid system over time. Customers can also refinance their existing vehicles or order new vans and buses with the XL3 Hybrid Electric Drive System.