Mass. Transport Fleet Adds Hydraulic Hybrid Shuttles

Lightning Hybrids will supply Massachusetts-based transportation provider Kiessling Transit with 35 parallel hydraulic-hybrid systems, the company announced at the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis.

by Staff

March 6, 2015

Mass. Transport Fleet Adds Hydraulic Hybrid Shuttles — *Photo courtesy of Lightning Hybrids.*

1 min to read

The sale marks Lightning Hybrids’ largest order to date.

The hydraulic-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency by 30 percent and significantly reduced nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions during a year-long pilot program with Kiessling Transit, according to Lightning Hybrids.

Kiessling Transit’s vehicles will use 2015 and 2016 model-year Ford E-450 chassis and Elkhart Coach bodies. The hydraulic-hybrid systems will be installed prior to delivery this summer. The hydraulic system uses regenerative braking energy rather than a battery to power the vehicle's driveline.

The technology is designed to improve emissions and low-end torque, reduce fuel use, increase brake life, and decrease maintenance and operational costs. Vehicles with Lightning Hybrids’ technology produce half of the NOx emissions and 30-percent less carbon-dioxide emissions, compared to vehicles without the system, according to the company.

Kiessling Transit will use the hybrid vehicles to transport primarily urban-area Massachusetts residents with disabilities. The company is based in Norfolk, Mass., and currently contracts with regional transit authorities, state agencies, and local municipalities to transport passengers throughout the state.

Topics:Hydraulic Hybrid Lightning Systems Paratransit Brakes Medium-Duty Trucks Green Fleet

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