Honda's North American sales and distribution arm is testing a hybrid diesel truck built by Paccar Inc., incorporating a Peterbilt Model 386 truck, according to IndustryWeek.
Honda claims the truck should reduce carbon dioxide emissions about 45 tons a year, as compared to its diesel counterpart.
Honda hauls service parts between its parts centers and dealerships, using a number of Class 8 trucks.
To evaluate fuel economy under a variety of driving conditions, the hybrid truck test will occur along a hilly route in Tennessee and a flat jaunt in Georgia. A conventional diesel truck will also run the routes, to provide an accurate comparison.
Paccar has an advanced hybrid vehicle program. The powertrain of this particular truck uses an Eaton hybrid engine.
