The New York City Parks Department has recently put 17 Kenworth T370 diesel-electric hybrids into service, as part of the city's goal to curb carbon dioxide emissions by 30 percent by 2017.

"Sixty-four percent of our fleet of vehicles is already running on some sort of alternative fuel," said Keith Kerman, assistant commissioner for the parks department. "Some are even all electric, a few vehicles are solar powered, and many are CNG and hybrid powered. By the end of 2010, we're projected to be up to 72 percent."

Of the new hybrids, purchased through Gabrielli Kenworth, eight include rack bodies and lift gates, while the rest have five-yard dump bodies.

"The Kenworth T370 hybrids already in service are working great and preliminary results show we're reducing fuel consumption by up to 40 percent," said Kerman. "The Kenworth T370 hybrid dump trucks are targeted to haul dirt, sand and clay to ball fields, as well as for general assignment work. The T370s with rack bodies are our do-all vehicle and can support a wide range of park activities - from pruning to general maintenance. The hybrids are especially attractive since there is so much stop-and-go activity with the vehicles."

The city's Kenworth T370 hybrids feature the Paccar PX-6 engine rated at 240 horsepower and 660 pounds-feet of torque. Kenworth hybrids feature the Eaton diesel-electric hybrid power system; integral transmission-mounted motor/generator; and frame-mounted 340-volt, lithium-ion battery pack. Electricity generated through regenerative braking is stored and used for acceleration, assisting the diesel engine.

"We want our vehicles to be role models for what government can do," said Kerman. "We view being a green fleet and an environmental advocate as one of our missions for the New York City Parks Department."