Parker Hannifin has rolled a new version of its RunWise Advanced Series Hybrid Drive System designed for Class 8 refuse vehicles.

The system, which was introduced at Waste Expo 2009, combines hybrid drive and brake energy capabilities to reduce fuel consumption while operating on collection routes.

The system's brake energy recovery technology captures more than 70 percent of the vehicle's braking energy to reuse while the truck is accelerating. RunWise Modular Gen I has a patent-pending cradle design for packaging mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical components. The cradle design facilitates manufacturing, installation, testing and servicing, as it houses all major hydraulic subsystems. The design can adapt for use in multiple chassis configurations and can easily be removed if service is required.

According to the company, RunWise can reduce fuel consumption by 30 to 50 percent. The system works to match engine load with vehicle requirements, and requires less engine cooling. Other benefits of implementing the technology include reduced emissions, less brake wear and a smoother and quieter ride.

The RunWise system is made up of the engine, primary pump, secondary drive pump and motors, accumulators and Parker's Power Drive Unit. The version offers two-speed hydrostatic drive as well as mechanical direct drive.

"Parker's RunWise, with Advanced Series Hydraulic Hybrid technology, is taking refuse collection to new levels of smoothness, quiet operating conditions, and improved driver productivity, while contributing to a better environment and improving the bottom line," said Vance Zanardelli, manager of Parker's energy recovery business.

More info: www.parker.com.