PACCAR, the maker of Kenworth trucks and busses, as well as other brands, such as Peterbilt and DAF has commenced a hybrid truck program to reduce the use of fossil fuel and its impact on the environment.

Much like Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive, the conventional engine will be supplemented with an electric motor and what PACCAR calls "onboard energy-storage system." Not unlike other hybrid drivetrains, this storage device, typically a Nickel metal hydride battery, will consume power from the internal combustion engine feeding it to the electric motor. The most assessable eco benefit of this hybrid system on trucks is its performance in urban setting, particularly in local delivery application, where stop-and-go traffic is prevalent.

"PACCAR's innovative onboard energy-management systems will reduce vehicle idling time to further enhance operating efficiency and contribute to achieving customers' fuel-economy objectives," said Tom Plimpton, PACCAR president.

Via Autoblog