A prototype Mack truck was part of a recent demonstration of zero-emissions in Carson, California.
The truck is a heavy-duty, axle-back model. Its electric driveline, which is a plug-in hybrid, is proprietary.
The demonstration took place near the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, and was part of a program sponsored by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMC), in conjunction with Siemens. The project hopes to reduce air pollutions where a lot of freight is handled, such as the Port of Long Beach and the Port of Los Angeles, the United States' two biggest seaports.
Prior to the demonstration, Siemens installed a catenary system of overhead power lines, like those used by streetcars and trolleys, over a one-mile stretch of the highway. The truck was then able to connect to the lines overhead using the same type of “boom” seen on streetcars. Energy is transferred from the power lines to the truck's driveline via a Siemens' current collector. The system allows the truck to operate with no tailpipe emissions whatever.
Mack Trucks has been investigating other solutions to help reduce emissions, including using alternative fuels like dimethyl ether (DME).
Developments like this are interesting, but perhaps appeal more to specialists than the general public. Company officials could work with a brochure printing company to create a booklet that explains the operation of the equipment in detail.
