Eaton Corporation now has a program that lowers the replacement cost of batteries for its hybrid power systems. In addition, Eaton now offers two auxiliary power generator options for its hybrid electric power systems that allow engine-off operation of onboard equipment.


"We are now entering the period when the early adopters of hybrid technology are beginning to require service of the hybrid power batteries outside the factory warranty period," said Gerard Devito, director of engineering, Eaton Hybrid Power Systems Division. "We are committed to helping fleets receive real value in running cleaner, greener fleets by continuing to lower the overall cost of ownership for hybrid systems and prove a positive return on investment. This service replacement program is focused on doing just that."

The new program significantly lowers the purchase price of PECs by up to half for pickup and delivery as well as utility applications. A standard aftermarket warranty of one year parts and labor applies, with a two-year extended protection plan available at an additional cost.

Starting in October 2011, the program will be available through dealerships that elect to participate in this program and are authorized to service Eaton Hybrid Power Systems.

In addition to the PEC service replacement program, Eaton has announced it will offer two APG options in 2012 that will allow fleets to run vital equipment from the vehicle without requiring the engine to idle for power generation.

"The APG options will quietly meet the power needs for customers using 115 volt single-phase tools and 208 volt 3-phase loads," said Devito. "By using the hybrid batteries for power, the APG option offers fleets real payback by further reducing fuel consumption. Of course, this option provides even greater reductions in emissions, which is a benefit to us all."

200 Million-mile Milestone

At the Hybrid, Electric and High Efficiency Truck Users Forum 2011 National Conference being held in Baltimore, Md. This week, Eaton announced that its world-wide fleet of hybrid-drive equipped vehicles has collectively accumulated more than 200 million miles of service. That, Eaton says, produced savings in the order of 8 million gallons of fuel and 80,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

More than 5,500 of Eaton's hybrid systems are in use today worldwide on city buses, school buses, package delivery trucks, beverage delivery trucks, refrigerated delivery trucks, refuse and recycling trucks, utility vehicles and other commercial applications.

Eaton says its hybrid systems and advanced drivetrains will provide reliable and practical solutions for commercial vehicle manufactures to comply with new U.S. Department of Transportation and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas pollution standards set to begin in 2014.

"Eaton's leadership position in hybrid power systems is expanding, and we're seeing global acceptance of hybrid technology among truck and bus manufacturers as well as fleet owners and operators," said John Ritter, vice president and general manager of Eaton's Hybrid Power Systems Division. "Many initial hybrid customers are returning to place orders for trucks and buses, and a record number of new customers are starting to step forward and experience the benefits of our proven technology."

For more information on Eaton's hybrid power systems, visit www.eaton.com/hybrid.