HybridCars says we need hybrid technology in pickup trucks, now
Hybrid technology is popular in passenger cars (and coming online in more and more models), delivery vehicles, and is slowly being introduced to SUVs and minivans (at least in Japan). But, if hybrid technology is going to become a serious option to reduce CO2 emissions, then the pickup market is where the growth needs to happen (the light hybrid Silverado and Sierra, now dead, don't count. Full hybrids of these will be coming next year), because so many trucks are sold in the US, says HybridCars. I agree that hybrid technology makes a lot of sense in pickups, not only for the power generator feature, but also because a full hybrid would complement a diesel engine in supplying lots of power when it's needed and saving fuel when it isn't. With the un-girly-man Arnold talking green in California, maybe large hybrid truck sales will be the nail in the coffin of the stereotype of the weak environmentalist.
[Source: HybridCars]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
ronilateral-registrations 2:32AM (5/05/2007)
Indeed, we don't need a Hydrogen Hummer, we need a HYBRID Hummer.
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Nils 6:55AM (5/05/2007)
Hybridizing monster trucks diverts attention from the real problem, just like ethanol does, it's nothing more than slick marketing: buy a hybrid truck, pour Exx in it and there you go, you just saved the world from Climate-change, smog, Peak-oil and dangerous Leftists, Great!
Nail in the coffin? What exactly would be proven?
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MikeW 10:53AM (5/05/2007)
Raise the bottom.
How many new pickups still have 4 speed automatics?
Where are the 6 speed autos?
The Mazda6 was upgraded from the JATCO dual range 4 speed auto (1,2,3,4 in underdrive, the 4th in direct drive) to a 6 speed auto (The heavy duty TF-80SC, Why they didn't use the TF-60SN) for the 2005 model year, and gained 1mpg city/highway, and was faster/smoother.
Lock up those torque converters.
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MikeW 11:05AM (5/05/2007)
and it appears the programming was to primarily lockup only in 4th, 5th, and 6th gear. (Full throttle in 3rd at 75mph looks to be the exception, but that isn't very useful)
http://forum.mazda6tech.com/viewtopic.php?t=682&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=70
Not that the V6 used by the Mazda6 has the low end power it so needed (it has the variable resonance interconnection, but no valve)
http://www.geocities.com/mikey9t6/car_uvwxyz_vris.htm
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TG 2:31PM (5/05/2007)
We don't need a Hydrogen Hummer, we need a HYBRID Hummer.
Posted at 2:32AM by ronilateral-registrations
Correction; Battery [EV] Hummer.
We have to stop running around burning stuff on 4 wheels.
Nils at 6:55am is correct, *With hybrids, we just divert attention from the real problem, besides, when gas is cut off, hybrids are just as DEAD in the DRIVEWAY as any gas guzzler.
Far better, [and more efficient], to plug into the grid and leave the smog out by the power plant.
Even a coal-gen plant with enviro-tech is way better than gas burning in the city.= TG
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Owain Ozymandias Buck 8:28AM (5/07/2007)
For TG and other pure EV evangelists:
Pure EV's are a no go for a significant part of the world. While plugging into the grid is a wonderfully efficient way to fuel up our transportation, some folks just need more range. Delivery vehicles. Patrol, fire, EMT, and rescue vehicles. DOT. Farmers. Many departments of government and business that still depend on actually being out and about and onsite to make things happen.
Not to mention that a lot of those units have to be available at times when the grid is down.
And I would have to question whether a "clean" coal plant--probably built down the road from me here in flyover country--is better than efficient, clean fuel powered plug-in series hybrids.
I'm not in love with the IC engine. Well, okay, I'm nostalgic for it in a juvenile way, but I'd much rather have a more efficient energy storage system. We do need better fuel cells and battery technology. But that's the key: STORAGE. When it comes down to it, a pure EV leaves you at the mercy of the grid. Right now, a liquid hydrocarbon fuel--many of which can be used fairly cleanly, and much more cleanly than coal--are the surest at hand storage of energy.
Yes, the grid is efficient, but making life better in the megalopolis doesn't necessarily equate to being better for everyone.
Just my two cents.
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David Beach 11:07AM (5/07/2007)
As a small truck person I could not agree more.
A Diesel-Hybrid or a flex fuel Hybrid pick up truck makes sense. You get more miles per dollar with either Diesel or E-85 and the electrict motor saves fule in the stop and go short hauls.
Not to mention that the battry pack is not a real space issue in a truck like it is in a car
Izusa made a desel pick up that peiple still buy at junk yards for the engin to put into a small truck.
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66coronet 12:16PM (5/07/2007)
I say, why bother - expecially for a 4x4. Most hybrids gain 20-25% on fuel mileage depending on volume of batteries and drive train. If a truck gets 14mpg X .2 to .25 = 2.8-3.5 mpg average increase. GM has already put a pickup out that accomplished this and didn't sell well.
If trucks are to be hybrid, start with the small & mid size trucks so they will gain the best fuel mileage and the saving will better offset the price of the hybrid system. Plus mate the hybrid electric system with a MDS motor. That way half the gas or diesel motor will be used to charge batteries.
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66coronet 1:43PM (5/07/2007)
I'd think the mini van hybrid should be a big push for auto makers. Since the mini van is mostly a family vehicle and used mostly for city use.
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