Many utility companies want to purchase equipment and tools with modern technological advancements, such as the new hybrid models that have shown up in the market in recent years. Some buyers may wonder why they should purchase a hybrid bucket truck. Investing in this type of equipment can quickly pay off due to the many benefits it has to offer and can save a company money due to its advanced technology. For example, through the use of a hybrid propulsion system, a company can enjoy benefits such as reduced fuel costs, lower carbon emissions, and the ability to meet goals for sustainable energy.

Hybrid Overview

Hybrid vehicles, such as bucket trucks, work by using two combined sources of power: the diesel engine and the hybrid propulsion system that relies upon lithium-ion batteries. Only highly trained personnel should operate these vehicles. The operator can easily switch back and forth between the trucks two sources of power. The battery usually requires eight hours of charging and can also be recharged through its diesel engine while the truck is running.

New Model Features

With the aim of improving fuel economy, these new bucket trucks can save up to 60 percent on fuel costs in comparison to utility vehicles that use a conventional diesel engine. This ability to save fuel is achieved by allowing operators to perform their tasks while the diesel engine is turned off. The bucket lift is fully functional through the use of the electric motor for up to two hours; when the battery level is low, the engine will automatically restart to briefly charge the battery. Keeping the engine off while on a job site can save up to two-thirds of the fuel that would normally be used if the engine were kept running during the entire project. The following is a list of some of the other features of these vehicles.

High Battery Performance -The latest advancements in technology allow the batteries of these trucks to supply up to 25 kilowatts of electricity. This stored power is very useful, especially when workers need to use this power to investigate the cause of power outages in areas where the vehicles are deployed. For comparison reasons, the batteries that supply the power to these hybrid vehicles have the capability of lighting a dozen houses.

Lower Operating and Maintenance Costs - In addition to fuel economy, operation and maintenance costs are reduced when utilizing one of these new hybrid models as they provide more horsepower when being driven. The truck chassis has a warranty, so companies that purchase these vehicles can be assured that the manufacturer is providing a great deal of reliability. Wear and tear on the brake system is also reduced because of its reduced regenerative breaking. Additionally, the engine of the vehicle and its other systems have extended maintenance intervals.

Lighter Trucks - In the early days of hybrid technology, the heavier weight of the vehicle was a problem due to the additional electric motor. This problem has been overcome in today's hybrid system by downsizing the diesel engine. Since extra horsepower is not necessary, the truck is able to employ the use of a smaller engine that can accomplish the same amount of work. In fact, these new vehicles offer faster acceleration on the road, as the new models of combined hydraulic and electric hybrids offer accelerated energy and give more torque off the line.

Improved Productivity and Safety - One of the most challenging problems in the utility industry is performing repairs and restorations during late night or early morning hours. Decreasing the noise is the key to accomplishing these necessary tasks to eliminate complaints about noise from people in the neighborhoods where the work is being performed. Communication between the ground crew to the bucket operator has also been improved, thereby increasing safety during operation.

As growing numbers of companies who operate large fleets are turning to hybrids, modern equipment such as the hybrid bucket truck is the best investment these businesses can make today to ensure the future of the company. With all of these added features, every company can be assured of an increase in efficiency and safety on the work site. These technologically advanced vehicles are the new models for new times!