Purolator to test hybid-electric vehicles

MISSISSAUGA, Ont. (Oct. 30, 2002) — Purolator Courier yesterday said it will test an engine and drivetrain that combines diesel and electric motor technologies and produces fewer emissions than conventional diesels.

The courier company has signed an agreement with Azure Dynamics, a Toronto-based developer of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) powertrains, to test the feasibility of using the low-emission engines on up to 3,000 vehicles in the Purolator fleet.

In commercial vehicles, HEVs typically use a combination of diesel and electric power. The diesel engine turns a generator to provide electrical energy for batteries and a drive motor, which propels the vehicle at lower speeds. The diesel engine powers the vehicle at higher speeds. The HEV provides higher fuel economy and with its reduced emissions can meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s certification as an Ultra-Low Vehicle Emissions (ULEV) vehicle using current diesel technology.

It is of particular interest to courier operations because of its potential to economize on fuel in stop-and-go situations.

“The timing is right,” said Ray Pedersen, senior vice-president of operations at Purolator. “The need to take a leadership role is today and Purolator wants the customers in our community to understand the commitment we are willing to make to do our part in cleaning up the environment.”

HEVs have been in use for several years. General Motors Corp. developed transit buses powered by hybrid diesel-electric engines, and Honda Motor Co. sells a hybrid gasoline-electric passenger car in the United States.