A DUNSTABLE company has launched a four-year trial of a 26-tonne diesel-electric hybrid truck in the commercial sector.
Renault Trucks UK, which has its HQ at Houghton Hall business park has teamed up with 33-year partner, transport giant Norbert Dentressangle, to trial the Renault Premium Hybrys Tech.
Until now, most eco-friendly commercial vehicles have been the smaller variety. The trials could open up a new market for the Volvo-owned French firm, which employs about 100 people in Porz Avenue.
The Hybrys will operate from Norbert Dentressangle’s depot in Aylesford, Kent, delivering into London. It uses a 600V electric motor in an 800kg unit to start and to accelerate, making it quieter for night-time and early morning deleiveries.
The trials will test the technology which could, it is estimated, save 20 per cent on fuel costs.
Top bosses of both firms were in Dunstable on Wednesday, May 16, for the launch of the trial of what it believes is the first UK registered 26tonne hybrid to go into service in the UK on a ‘distribution’ operation.
Drivers are being especially trained in the different techniques needed to make best use of the truck, which is only as loud as two people talking when in electric mode. It uses energy from braking to charge up its lithium ion batteries.
Hervé Montjotin, executive vice president of Norbert Dentressangle, said: “It is totally part of our green agenda for reducing environmental impact.
“Trucks are not the problem for the environment, they are a part of the solution.” Higher environmental standards will be coming into force in 2014.
Data from the trials will be used to determine the benefits and limits of the system, and how they can be used most effectively to meet customers’ needs. A commercial launch could follow.