– 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

and

, “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

’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.