Hybrid heavy duty trucks to gain popularity
January 19, 2012
Facing challenges to reduce emissions while also scaling back costs on fuel and truck maintenance, fleet managers may find a solution in slowly adding in hybrid heavy duty trucks while retiring older models that no longer comply with pollution regulations.
A report from Pike Research acknowledges that medium- and heavy-duty truck sales took a major hit during the global economic recession, and commercial shipping companies were battered by sky-high diesel fuel costs around the world. The firm noted that with the slow-but-steady rise in the economy, companies will start to make major purchases on trucks again, with many looking to select vehicles that are friendly to the environment and their wallets.
As a result, Pike predicts that more businesses will buy battery electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid medium- and heavy-duty trucks, with the market growing 92 percent this year. Total sales could top 19,000 vehicles, the company forecasts. The firm also noted that another incentive for fleet owners to convert their trucks is the marketing angle, since they'd be able to promote the fact that they are more environmentally conscious than competitors. Additionally, the switch could ease the "bottom-line cost impact" that comes from government emission regulations.
Fleet owners in Asia and Europe are particularly likely to embrace these vehicles, Pike noted.
"The performance of specific economic sectors will play a big role in the growth of electric drivetrains for trucks," said senior analyst Dave Hurst in a statement. "For example, as the retail industry rebounds, pick-up and delivery vehicle sales will rebound with it. This in turn will have a positive impact on the hybrid, plug-in, and battery electric truck markets, as well."
Using alternative fuels has also become a more viable option for companies hoping to cut their costs. The Linde Group, a gases and engineering company, recently announced that it would be adding 20 trucks that run on liquefied natural gas to deliver its products to customers across the country. The company said another reason for the purchase was its desire to reduce its reliance upon foreign oil.
"It's testament to our belief in the benefits of LNG and our commitment to be a leader in this industry," said Earl Lawson, vice president of energy solutions for Linde North America.
