More hybrid diesel-electric vehicles from GM
30 March 1999
General Motors delivered its first hybrid electric bus for New York City and made an announcement of a demonstration fleet of hybrid electric pickup trucks next year.
The NYC Transit bus features a GM Allison Transmission-designed series hybrid system, which combines a 160 kW-traction drive system and a diesel- fueled 100 kW auxiliary power unit. According to GM, the system provides a 40% improvement in fuel economy and a 70% reduction in emissions over conventional heavy-duty powertrains.
The hybrid pickup truck demonstration program would begin in New York and California later next year. The fleet of 10 trucks—some Chevrolet Silverados and some GMC Sierras—will feature a conventional powertrain and driveline with an electric motor integrated between the engine and transmission. Low-voltage lead acid batteries will power the motor.
Source: General Motors