Hino Hybrid Electric Delivers Fuel Savings For Altus

Brendan Cannon, our Group Fleet & Utilisation Manager, recently sat down with Hino and the Roads & Infrastructure Australia team to discuss the ongoing integration of Hino Hybrid Electric vehicles into our fleet and the reasons behind this strategic decision.

Altus Traffic, continues to reduce its fuel bill and CO2 emissions courtesy of the adoption of Hino 300 Series Hybrid Electrics into its fleet.

“Our fleet comprises of over 600 trucks, which are a combination of Truck Mounted Attenuators (TMAs) and Drop Deck bodies,” said Brendan Cannon, Group Fleet & Utilisation Manager for Altus Traffic.

“By continuing to add Hino Hybrid Electric vehicles to our fleet, Altus benefits from a cost-effective, lower-emission, and driver-friendly truck that seamlessly integrates into our operations while reducing fuel expenses and environmental impact,” said Mr Cannon.

“Over the last 24 months, we have tracked fuel on our Hybrid Electric and Diesel equivalent 300 Series trucks and have noted a 10 to 15% difference in fuel consumption – this is an immediate cost saving for the business, and also means a reduction in our CO2 emissions,” said Mr Cannon.

“We have been purchasing Hybrid Electrics since 2008 and currently have over 14 on our fleet,” he continued.

“One of the benefits is that the hybrid drive system operates automatically to assist the diesel engine and reduces fuel consumption – this means we benefit from lower fuel costs without requiring anything additional from our drivers.

“Our drivers don’t really notice any difference driving the Hybrid Electric and enjoy its smooth handling, making it a seamless and user-friendly solution.”

The Hino Hybrid Electrics use a standard diesel pump meaning there are no refuelling issues, range restrictions or charging requirements.

“Another advantage is the regenerative braking which converts kinetic energy into stored battery power when the truck decelerates, and also acts as an auxiliary brake – this improves efficiency and increases the life of the brakes, reducing our maintenance costs.

“From a fleet management perspective, the high levels of safety features allow us to meet our OH&S requirements,” he said.

Like all Hino 300 Series 4×2 models, the Hybrid Electric models feature Hino SmartSafe, a comprehensive safety package with advanced driver-assist technology that takes an active focus in protecting the life of drivers, passengers and other road users.

Read the complete article from Roads & Infrastructure Australia here.