Not to be outdone by it package delivery rival, UPS is buying 200 hybrid diesel electric delivery vans from Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. (FCCC), as well as 300 walk-in vans powered by compressed natural gas (CNG). The truck maker says it is its largest single order of alternative-fuel commercial vehicles to date.
Based on FCCC's MT45 and MT55 walk-in van chassis, all 500 “green” trucks will be placed in daily delivery operations across the U.S. UPS currently has 25 hybrids in service and will take delivery of 200 new trucks in 2009. The CNG trucks are scheduled to go into service later this year.
FCCC says that under federal incentive programs, its hybrid trucks may be eligible for up to $4,500 in tax credits and CNG chassis up to $25,000 in tax credits.
The hybrids are powered by a Cummins ISB 5.9-liter diesel meeting EPA '07 emissions requirements and Eaton hybrid technology with lithium-ion batteries. The Eaton system features a new low-profile hybrid drive unit that provides a completely flat floor in the driver compartment without any cab modifications. The diesel-hybrid package offers a 40% improvement in fuel economy and a 90% reduction in emissions compared to non-hybrid vehicles, according to FCCC.
The CNG trucks use the Cumming D Gas Plus engine, which produces 195 hp. They feature twin aluminum fuel cylinders that provide a fuel range of up to 275 miles, according to FCCC.
