Green Big Truck

Volvo plug-in hybrid bus with B?sbaar rapid charging to begin field testing in Gothenburg

Volvo Buses’ new plug-in hybrid buses will begin field tests in Gothenburg, Sweden this month. Volvo Buses has already sold more than 1,000 of its conventional hybrid units; the plug-in version will facilitate the reduction of fuel consumption and carbon dioxide by 75 to 80%, compared with current diesel buses, the company said. The plug-in [...]

Busting Myths of Pickup Truck Aerodynamics

GMC put its new 2014 Sierra pickup through more time in the wind tunnel than any other truck before it and, as a result, found significant design improvements to bolster efficiency. They also learned that a lot of “facts” about pickup truck aerodynamics are actually myths. To achieve improved airflow, aerodynamic engineers like Diane Bloch [...]

New Mercedes-Benz Sprinter sets high efficiency standard

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has lent its name to an entire vehicle segment and is a synonym for large vans all around the globe. The Sprinter has always driven innovations in its segment — a tradition that is being continued by the new model. The new Sprinter continues to set standards, boasting five new safety systems, [...]

Volvo says Hybrid is as reliable as Conventional Diesel

Since the launch of the Volvo FE Hybrid about 50 trucks have been delivered to customers throughout Europe. Their responses are highly positive. The truck is both economical and reliable. Christina Eriksson, business manager for alternative drivelines, has encountered nothing but enthusiasm on her visits to customers. “It’s been amazing !” she says, “Our hybrid [...]

Peugeot debuts Partner Electric small van

The new 100% electric version of the Partner van sees Peugeot take another step in offering business users responsible mobility suitable for all kinds of use and a quieter driving experience. The new Partner Electric combines the features which have already made the Partner a great commercial success (presently the UK’s best-selling small van) with [...]

Busting Myths of Pickup Truck Aerodynamics

May 19th, 2013

Aaron Turpen

GMC put its new 2014 Sierra pickup through more time in the wind tunnel than any other truck before it and, as a result, found significant design improvements to bolster efficiency. They also learned that a lot of “facts” about pickup truck aerodynamics are actually myths.

To achieve improved airflow, aerodynamic engineers like Diane Bloch examined every millimeter of the truck to find areas of improvement, debunking some popular myths along the way.

To study the way air passes over, under and around the Sierra, engineers used General Motors’ state-of-the-art Aerodynamics Lab, a 750-foot-long tunnel through which a 43-foot-diameter fan powered by a DC electric motor with the equivalent of 4,500 horsepower can generate winds of up to 138 mph. Aerodynamic advancement is one reason why the 2014 Sierra will be the most fuel-efficient V-8 pickup on the market. Read more »

Valence Technology receives $12M purchase order from Wrightbus for Li-ion batteries

May 17th, 2013

Aaron Turpen

Valence Technology, Inc. has received a purchase order valued at $12 million from Wrightbus, for lithium iron magnesium phosphate batteries to be delivered through 2015. Wrightbus, which has had a relationship with Valence since 2007, selected Valence as the battery supplier of choice for Wrightbus’ range of hybrid vehicles.

Valence recently announced the availability of the U-Charge P40-24, the first in a new generation of high-power battery modules utilizing the company’s lithium iron magnesium phosphate chemistry. The 1.024 kWh (25.6 V, 40 Ah) module is capable of 10-second discharge pulses of up to 700A (17C) and continuous discharge currents of 240A (6C). Along with providing high power discharge capabilities, the P40 can also be recharged from a 0% state of charge (SOC) to 90% SOC in less than an hour.

2014 GMC Sierra has new 4.3L V-6

May 17th, 2013

Aaron Turpen

When the all-new 2014 GMC Sierra full-size pickup arrives this summer, its standard 4.3L EcoTec V-6 it will offer the most torque of any standard V-6 in the segment – 305 lb-ft (413 Nm).

Three new, advanced EcoTec3 engines will be available this year – a 5.3L available at launch, followed by the 4.3L and 6.2L versions available later this year. All are designed specifically for the high trailering and hauling demands unique to truck buyers. Read more »

First 12L natural gas powered big trucks enter service in Georgia – What is the future of trucking?

May 8th, 2013

Aaron Turpen

The first full-sized, full-powered, 12-liter heavy-duty trucking engines powered by pure natural gas to be commercially produced are now in service in Georgia. And you can expect to see many more of them in the near future. Read more »