City Hybrid Aerial Truck Trims Trees and Emissions

October 13, 2009

The City has taken another step toward reducing its carbon footprint by acquiring a hybrid aerial truck to trim trees in parks and boulevards.

Other than the decals that distinguish this truck as environmentally friendly, the new vehicle looks and performs like a standard diesel-powered aerial truck. But as a hybrid, it will reduce emissions, energy consumption and costs of operation over time.

“The City is committed to becoming more efficient and environmentally sensitive in all its operations,” said Lyall Brenneis, Parks Branch Manager. “We’re proud to be part of a commitment, shared by Edmontonians, to be an environmental leader.”

With a standard diesel truck, the engine runs the entire time the arm and hydraulic saw are in use. The hybrid can lift the bucket for up to 6–10 minutes on battery power.
Then, once the diesel engine automatically restarts, it fully recharges the battery system in about 6-10 minutes and automatically turns off.

The unit, which the City has pilot tested since early 2009, is the first medium-duty hybrid-aerial truck in service with the City and is expected to improve fuel economy by 30–40 per cent over standard aerial trucks. It does not produce exhaust on electric power and the diesel engine only produces noise up to a few minutes per hour.

“Because the hybrid truck runs on electricity, it is quieter so it also reduces noise pollution; it releases fewer emissions, which leaves a smaller carbon footprint,” says Brenneis. “Over the long term, the City will save money through reduced fuel costs and an extended vehicle lifespan.”
 
The Parks Branch has recently qualified for the ISO 14001 designation – the most widely used and highly regarded environmental management system in the world.
The City of Edmonton’s overall management system is called Enviso and the City uses ISO 14001 standards to help develop and manage activities, products and services that impact the environment. The new hybrid aerial truck is a welcome addition to its fleet.

This initiative supports EcoVision Edmonton, Council’s vision for an environmentally sustainable city.

For more information:

Doug Costigan

River Valley, Forestry
and Environmental Services

Title Director
Telephone

780-496-4956
780-446-1057 (cell)
City of Edmonton Logo

Copyright © 2010, City of Edmonton.