Kenworth T370 Hybrid Supports New York City Mayor Bloomberg’s Green Transportation Initiatives

New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg is shown next to a Kenworth T370 diesel-electric hybrid truck operated by the New York Department of Sanitation. The Kenworth truck, the first medium-duty hybrid in service in New York City's truck fleet, was featured at Mayor Bloomberg's press conference today which focused upon the city's latest green transportation initiatives.

NEW YORK--The Kenworth T370 diesel-electric hybrid truck was featured today at a press conference held by New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg to discuss the city’s latest green transportation initiatives. The event took place at the Queens District 5 facility operated by the New York Department of Sanitation.

The Kenworth T370 went into service this past spring as the first medium duty diesel-electric hybrid truck in New York City’s truck fleet. “The Kenworth hybrid truck is already providing cleaner air in the community,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “A clean environment is important to our citizens and clean trucks will play a growing and essential role.”

“Kenworth has a strong commitment to offer industry-leading products that reduce emissions and enhance fuel economy,” said Bill Kozek, Kenworth general manager and PACCAR vice president.

New York City’s Kenworth T370 hybrid is equipped with a stakebed body, PACCAR PX-6 engine rated at 240 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque, and the Eaton diesel-electric hybrid power system. The Kenworth hybrid’s assignment is to pick up and deliver supplies and parts for the Department of Sanitation’s various locations throughout the New York City metropolitan area. The department expects to introduce three more Kenworth T370 hybrids into service later this year.

Kenworth hybrids use an integral transmission-mounted motor/generator; frame-mounted 340-volt, lithium-ion battery pack; and dedicated power management system. Electricity generated through regenerative braking is stored and used for acceleration, assisting the diesel engine. The hybrid system is monitored through an in-dash display. As the power requirements for different driving conditions change, the screen constantly updates the driver on system status.

The Kenworth T270 Class 6 and T370 Class 7 diesel-electric hybrid trucks are for use in pickup and delivery, utility, and service applications. Kenworth medium duty hybrid tractors, available up to 55,000-lb GCW, are for local haul applications, including beverage, general freight, and grocery distribution. Purchasers of Kenworth hybrid trucks may qualify for a federal tax credit ranging from $6,000 to $12,000.

About the New York City Department of Sanitation

The New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) promotes a healthy environment through the efficient management of solid waste and the development of environmentally sound long-range plans for handling refuse. The Department operates 59 district garages and manages a fleet of 2,040 rear-loading collection trucks and 450 mechanical brooms. Each day approximately 11,900 tons of household and institutional waste are collected. The Department clears litter, snow, and ice from approximately 6,000 City street miles, and removes debris from vacant lots as well as abandoned vehicles from City streets.

About Kenworth Truck Company

Kenworth Truck Company is the manufacturer of The World’s BestŪ heavy and medium duty trucks. Kenworth is an industry leader in providing fuel-saving technology solutions that help increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The company’s dedication to the green fleet includes aerodynamic trucks, medium duty diesel-electric hybrids, liquefied natural gas trucks, and the Kenworth Clean PowerŪ no-idle system. This year, Kenworth became the first truck manufacturer to receive the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Air Excellence award in recognition of its environmentally friendly products. In addition, Kenworth is the recipient of the 2009 J.D. Power and Associates awards for Highest in Customer Satisfaction for both Over the Road Segment and Pickup and Delivery Segment Class 8 Trucks, and for Heavy Duty Dealer Service. Kenworth’s Internet home page is at www.kenworth.com. Kenworth. A PACCAR Company. (NASDAQ: PCAR)