DEBRIS.COMgood for a laugh, or possibly an aneurysm

FedEx, in partnership with Environmental Defense, is beginning to convert its fleet of delivery trucks to new hybrid models that get 50% better fuel economy:

Two new trucks in D.C. bring our total number of hybrid electric vehicles delivering packages — and cleaner air — around the U.S. to 18. The first two hit the streets of Sacramento in March 2004, followed by ten more in New York City and four more in Tampa in October.

Details of the hybrid solution can be found in the manufacturer’s press release:

Eaton’s hybrid-electric powertrain effectively combines a diesel engine and electric motor to drive the vehicle. A computer determines the most efficient combination… A four-cylinder engine replaces the six-cylinder version currently used in the FedEx Express W700 delivery vehicle. The engine size is reduced because of the added power provided by the electric motor. A particulate trap has been added to the truck to further reduce emissions.

Batteries capture and store energy during the “regenerative braking” phase of the vehicle’s operation…

Eaton’s hybrid electric powertrain has been placed in the standard white FedEx Express W700 delivery truck… The hybrid electric delivery vehicle will be differentiated from the standard FedEx Express delivery vehicle only by an OptiFleet brand decal on the sides and rear of the vehicle. The hybrid electric E700 has a gross vehicle weight of approximately 16,000 lbs. and a cargo capacity of approximately 670 cubic feet.