September 18, 2008
Con Edison of New York Orders Hybrid Electric Trucks from Azure Dynamics
OAK PARK, MI – Azure Dynamics Corporation, a developer of hybrid
electric and electric powertrains for commercial vehicles, has received an
initial order for three units from Con Edison of New York for its Balance
Hybrid Electric system integrated on Ford’s E-450 chassis.
Jay Sandler, Azure’s vice
president of Sales said, “This commitment from a leading utility like Con
Edison further demonstrates the versatility and broad application of our hybrid
electric solution. The environmental benefits derived from the Balance Hybrid
Electric vehicle provides a clear statement that Con Edison is taking a lead
role in greenhouse gas reductions.”
And according to Kenneth
Jack Jr., general manager of Transportation at Con Edison and Orange
and Rockland,
“Con Edison is committed to reducing its carbon foot-print by using hybrid
vehicles and other innovative transportation technologies. Part of our strategy
is to steadily replace our trucks with technology such as Azure’s; reducing our
dependency on petroleum-based fuels, improving New York’s air quality and meeting the
challenges associated with climate change.”
The Azure Balance Hybrid
Electric system specified by Con Edison has unique attributes like engine-off
at idle and at below 20 miles per hour, while electronically supporting key
ancillary functions like air conditioning, power steering and braking. The
powertrain, with a Ford 5.4L engine, can improve fuel economy by up to 40
percent, while reducing carbon emission by up to 30 percent in city conditions.
The powertrain also offers a significant reduction in maintenance costs
including up to 75 percent reduction in brake maintenance versus conventionally
equipped competitors.