NEW YORK CITY - New York City's Kenworth T370 diesel-electric hybrid truck went into service this past spring as the first medium-duty diesel-electric hybrid truck in its truck fleet.

The city's T370 hybrid is equipped with a stakebed body, PACCAR PX-6 engine rated at 240 hp and 560 ft.-lb. of torque, and the Eaton diesel-electric hybrid power system. The Kenworth hybrid's assignment is to pick up and deliver supplies and parts for the Department of Sanitation's various locations throughout the New York City metropolitan area. The department expects to introduce three more Kenworth T370 hybrids into service later this year.

Kenworth hybrids use an integral transmission-mounted motor/generator; frame-mounted 340-volt, lithium-ion battery pack; and dedicated power management system. Electricity generated through regenerative braking is stored and used for acceleration, assisting the diesel engine. The hybrid system is monitored through an in-dash display. As the power requirements for different driving conditions change, the screen constantly updates the driver on system status.

The Kenworth T270 Class 6 and T370 Class 7 diesel-electric hybrid trucks are for use in pickup and delivery, utility, and service applications. Kenworth medium-duty hybrid tractors, available up to 55,000-lb GCW, are for local haul applications, including beverage, general freight, and grocery distribution. Purchasers of Kenworth hybrid trucks may qualify for a federal tax credit ranging from $6,000 to $12,000.

The New York City Department of Sanitation operates 59 district garages and manages a fleet of 2,040 rear-loading collection trucks and 450 mechanical brooms. Each day approximately 11,900 tons of household and institutional waste are collected. The department clears litter, snow, and ice from approximately 6,000 city street miles, and removes debris from vacant lots as well as abandoned vehicles from city streets.