Eaton Displays Energy-Saving Hydraulic Launch Assist Technology In U.S. Army Truck at National Automotive Center's SAE Booth

SOUTHFIELD, Mich.--March 9, 2004--Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation is displaying its energy-saving Hydraulic Launch Assist(TM) system technology this week in a U.S. Army truck at the National Automotive Center's (NAC) booth at the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Show in Detroit.

Eaton's HLA(R) regenerative braking system can provide a 25 to 35 percent improvement in fuel efficiency, with 25 to 35 percent reductions in emissions and even greater reductions in brake wear. The system is able to provide high torque very quickly, even at very low speeds. Eaton said its HLA system is representative of the company's commitment to leading-edge technologies that benefit its customers and the environment. The Eaton technology is one of several innovations being displayed on the Army's prototype truck at the NAC booth.

"We are excited about showcasing the Hydraulic Launch Assist system technology in a U.S. Army vehicle in conjunction with the National Automotive Center, International Truck and Engine and Heart International," said Sohan Uppal, vice president of technology for Eaton's Fluid Power Group. "Interest is continuing to grow in our HLA technology and this represents another promising application."

In addition to potential military vehicle uses, Eaton's HLA system technology has attracted interest from commercial customers and government agencies. A development project is underway with a major commercial truck chassis manufacturer and there is also interest from the energy industry. The technology is appropriate for commercial vehicles with daily routines that include much start-and-stop driving.

The regenerative system works by recovering a portion of the energy normally wasted as heat by the vehicle's brakes. This recovered energy is held in fluid form in an on-board accumulator until the driver next accelerates the vehicle.

Fuel savings occur when the stored energy is then used to assist the engine during the initial, high-fuel consumption acceleration of the vehicle. Acceleration can be significantly improved due to the high power density of hydraulics, and the energy transfer is virtually transparent to the driver.

Eaton Corporation is a global diversified industrial manufacturer with 2003 sales of $8.1 billion that is a leader in fluid power systems; electrical power quality, distribution and control; automotive engine air management and powertrain controls for fuel economy; and intelligent drivetrain systems for fuel economy and safety in trucks. Eaton has 51,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 100 countries.