Most of you know that hybrid engine use a combination of an engine and an electric motor. They work by charging batteries while braking, through a process called regenerative braking. But another hybrid technology called the Hydraulic Hybrid System uses pressurized fluid instead of batteries to store energy as an alternative power source. It was developed by The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and its partners which include Army’s National Automotive Center, Hannifin Corporation, Eaton Corporation and Ford Motor Company back in 2004.
The technology wasn't much in focus for a long time, it has become more refined over the years. Around a weeks ago the city of Ann Arbor, Michigan got its first four garbage trucks powered by HLA (Hybrid Launch Assist) which is a type of Parallel Hydraulic Hybrid System developed by Eaton Corporation, it promises to be 30% more fuel efficient than conventional trucks. Ann Arbor was among the first to receive funding through the U.S. Department of Energy's Clean Cities Program for these Hybrid trucks. It's great news for Hydraulic Hybrid Systems and for its future.
