Efficient Drivetrains has delivered the first of six planned plug-in hybrid electric Class 6 armored trucks to Sectran Security in California. The trucks are powered by electric motors and utilize a compressed natural gas (CNG) range extender.
The PHEV armored trucks are part of a collaboration with North American Repower, California’s leading natural gas engine conversion company. The companies are converting a total of six Class 6 International armored trucks into range-extended plug-in hbyrids through a California grant.
Currently, Sectran Security trucks make frequent stops as part of their highly congested routes. At each stop, engines are kept idling for security purposes, but now risk violating California’s strict diesel idling regulations, which prohibit idling the engine for more than five minutes.
With the PHEV trucks, engine idling is eliminated entirely by operating in all-electric mode during stop-and-go operations. In hybrid mode, the truck uses RNG during highway operations. When the full fleet of six is complete, the vehicles will enable Sectran to reduce annual diesel consumption by 31,000+ gallons, significantly reduce annual fuel costs, and reduce emissions by up to 99.9%.
The trucks are capable of up to 20 miles of all-electric operation per charge.
Aaron is an automotive journalist living in Wyoming, USA. His background includes technology, mechanics, commercial vehicles, and new vehicle evaluations. Aaron is a member of several automotive media groups and writes for many well-known publications.