Odyne Systems LLC, a manufacturer of hybrid systems for medium- and heavy- duty work trucks, has been approved as an eligible vehicle for the recently expanded Drive Clean Chicago program, promoting clean air and better business solutions for Chicago’s fleets. Under the program, $11,295,000 has been funded for vouchers for alternative fuel vehicles over 6,001 Gross Vehicle Weight Rating and public stations in the city of Chicago and its six counties: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will. The incentives under the program cover 80% of the incremental cost of the vehicle.

Drive Clean Chicago aims to accelerate the adoption of advanced vehicle technologies for the commercial truck and taxi sectors. By reducing the cost of  new alternative fuel vehicle or the development of a public alternative fuel station, Chicago fleet owners can begin to see significant economic gains while creating a sustainable future for Chicago’s transportation system. The program is open to fleet owners, leased vehicle operators, manufacturers, vehicle technology vendors and station developers.

The Odyne hybrid power system features proprietary and patented hybrid technology combining reliable electric power conversion, power control and energy storage technology. An Odyne plug-in hybrid system lowers fuel consumption by up to 50% compared to traditional diesel or gasoline engines, reduces emissions and provides quieter operation at the work site. The Odyne system is the only one approved to interface with Allison Transmission’s fully-automatic transmissions and uses a rugged Remy electric motor in parallel with the existing drivetrain to provide launch assist and regenerative braking. At the work site, the Odyne hybrid system has the largest battery and exportable power system options available. Odyne continues to be the only plug-in hybrid system on both medium- and heavy-duty trucks to deliver greater fuel efficiency both while driving and at the work site.

Matt Jarmuz, director of sales for Odyne Systems noted, "We are excited to qualify under this expanded program and look forward to working closely with truck owners in the Chicago area to apply environmentally friendly Odyne hybrid systems to their vehicles. We have a passion for innovation and delivery of reliable, advanced hybrid system solutions, and we are excited to be part of this program.”