Hino hybrid and TNT express win transport awards

Australia’s first hybrid eco-truck has swept the field in the annual Transport Awards.

PowerTorque magazine presented Hino’s hybrid with the 2008 Technology and Innovation award.

And it recognised TNT Express as the first major courier and parcels delivery company to actively pursue the introduction of eco-friendly transport.

TNT Express has put 10 Hino Hybrid trucks on its national fleet.

TNT Express determined that the Hino Hybrid diesel electric hybrid emits 14 per cent less carbon dioxide than a conventional diesel engined truck of equivalent size.

The company estimates the saving will average 1600 kilograms of CO2 a year per vehicle.

Hino has committed itself to actively promote hybrid as a viable transport resource, especially in urban and suburban deliveries.

The company has spent more than two years promoting the concept in Australia and is now gearing up for a roll-out of new models.

The Hino Hybrid can shut down its diesel engine when the vehicle is stopped and smoothly restart when it is time to move off.

The vehicle captures energy generated under braking and returns it to special batteries for later use in the hybrid system.

TNT Express has further added to the green credentials of its 10 Hino Hybrids.
It has fitted special, strong polypropolene bodies for weight saving and recyclability, and a roof spoiler designed to cut wind drag during travel on many of the 80km/h ring roads which service major cities.