XL Hybrids has been working with conversion systems to make hybrid electric vehicles out of trucks and Class 1 thru 3 commercial vans. The company will be conducting pilot runs of their system using 2500-Series vans of General Motors which includes GMC Savana and Chevy Express. The hybrid set up will decrease the emission of carbon dioxide of urban fleets by as much as 20% and will also lower fuel consumption.
The powertrain by XL Hybrids is made up of a 53 horsepower electric motor that depends on a 2kWh lithium-ion battery which works smoothly with the V8 4.8L internal combustion powerplant and its automatic gearbox.
The hybrid setup will add some flexibility for the commercial trucks and vans, operating them using either application, although the fuel savings will also depend if the fleet will be taking urban or suburban routes. The electric motor can beef up the torque of the vehicle by as much as 240 ft-lb when accelerating, allowing the trucks and vans to improve their efficiency and performance.
XL Hybrids is collaborating with possible contractors that can install the hybrid system to old and new vehicles. The company eyes firms whose fleet of vehicles travel a minimum distance of 25,000 miles annually via suburban and urban roads.
By next year, XL Hybrids will also make the hybrid powertrain as an option for fleet leasing companies. Business owners will be able to save in operational costs without having to worry about up-front capital.
At the moment, experts estimate the savings to be at least $1,500 to about $2,500 every year on fuel expenses. Fleet customers can expect the return of investment in as early as three years. Installation of the hybrid system is also done in a few hours time.