Volvo Trucks has launched two hybrid refuse trucks that will be tested in regular daily operations in Sweden by refuse collection firms Renova and Ragn-Sells. "This test phase is the last stage in the evaluation of our hybrid solution ahead of production launch," says Staffan Jufors, president and CEO of Volvo Trucks.
Volvo's hybrid solution combines a diesel engine with an electric motor, with the electric motor being
used for moving off from standstill and for acceleration up to 20 km/h (12 mph). At higher speeds, the diesel engine is activated, but when the truck stops the diesel engine automatically switches off, thus avoiding unnecessary idling.
The batteries are recharged using the power that is generated during braking, making this system highly suitable for operating cycles involving repeated stops and starts, such as refuse collection duties. The hybrid refuse trucks are expected to use up to 20% less fuel.
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