Azure Dynamics to begin integrating plug-in hybrid technology in Ford F-Series Super-Duty Trucks; F-550 is first in 2013
27 July 2011
Azure Dynamics Corporation has entered an agreement with Ford Motor Company whereby Azure will integrate its proprietary plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology into the Ford F-Series Super Duty product line.
In collaboration with Ford, Azure’s plug-in hybrid technology will be initially integrated on Ford’s F-Series Super Duty cab and chassis, the F-550, which is expected to be available in early 2013. The agreement also allows Azure to perform hybrid powertrain conversions on other Super Duty platforms including F-350 and F-450 models and spans all engine, frame length and regular production options and configurations.
Azure believes that roughly two-thirds of the engineered parallel plug-in hybrid system will be applicable for all Super Duty powertrain configurations, and roughly one-third will need to be powertrain-specific (e.g., gasoline vs. diesel).
The Super Duty program will allow Azure to further expand its product line-up in its targeted medium duty commercial truck segment.
The Azure/Ford agreement includes a ‘ship-thru’ provision that permits Azure to place vehicles in the Ford transportation system and allows qualified Ford Commercial Truck dealerships to sell and service the product in key markets in North America.
The Ford F-Series Super Duty has a more than 50% share in the North American market. The commercial cab and chassis industry supports approximately 100,000 vehicles per year and is the preferred active work-truck for thousands of commercial fleets managing a broad range of logistical needs. The Super Duty offers several diesel and gasoline engine options and a variety of cab, bed and accessories options.
The new PHEV F-Series program further expands the Azure/Ford business relationship. Azure and Ford teamed up in 2009 to bring the Transit Connect Electric to market in just 13 months after the program was first announced. Prior to the Transit Connect Electric development, Azure and Ford collaborated on the E-450 cutaway and strip chassis to create the Balance Hybrid Electric, a truck or shuttle that achieves up to 40% fuel improvement while reducing emissions and maintenance costs by up to 30% each.
Balance Hybrid Electric has 60% share in the medium duty (class 2c – V) hybrid commercial truck market in North America and is deployed in fleets such as AT&T, CINTAS, DHL, FedEx Express, and Purolator.
I am not sure this does much to advance the state of the art.
I am not sure it helps push battery prices up or down.
I does get a few more HEVs on the road.
And the subsidies do not add much to the national debt.
I am sure I am not excited.
Posted by: ToppaTom | 27 July 2011 at 08:59 PM
An hybrid monster is still a monster.
Posted by: HarveyD | 28 July 2011 at 07:45 AM
yes it is even two-head monster
Posted by: Treehugger | 28 July 2011 at 09:21 AM
The state of the art is PHEV.
No other electric vehicle technology comes even close to racking up as many advantages and benefits.
I would go over the long list and logic once again in detail but you naysayers will figure it out sooner or later or not.
Posted by: Sirkulat | 28 July 2011 at 11:53 PM
If you use PHEV technology to continue to drive unjustified larger, heavier vehicles instead of much light more efficient units, the gain is close to zero. However, if you use PHEV on much lighter more efficient vehicles, you can really reduce overall fuel consumption and oil imports.
Posted by: HarveyD | 29 July 2011 at 07:25 PM
A main point with PHEV, Harvey, is how they more ideally affect land-use and development whereby overall driving is reduced. Which rig gets better mileage?
Honda Insight or a Chevy Suburban?
Answer: Chevy Suburban (with 9 passengers). Better land-use patterns make mass transit a better option.
Posted by: Sirkulat | 29 July 2011 at 09:07 PM
The technology is still too expensive.
That’s its major, fatal disadvantage.
Producing hybrids anyway may speed development - may not.
A truck converted to hybrid save LOTS of gas.
A scooter, micro or even compact converted to hybrid saves little gas; it is basically for the ego, simultaneously it is the opposite and similar to, driving a 500 hp auto.
It means you are in the company of either hybrid geeks or Hummer machos.
Posted by: ToppaTom | 31 July 2011 at 06:00 PM
Battery technology is more expensive.
PHEV battery packs are 1/3 to 1/4 the size of BEV packs.
Which technology is more expensive? BEV or PHEV?
Standard vehicles more readily convert to PHEV than to BEV.
I hope to one day convert a 1928 Model 'A' to PHEV.
The Nissan Leaf does nothing for my ego.
He who believes cost is everything, does nothing.
Posted by: Sirkulat | 01 August 2011 at 11:19 AM