Wal-Mart and ArvinMeritor are developing (via TreeHugger via Green Car Congress) a dual-mode, diesel-electric drivetrain for a Class 8 tractor. The vehicle, which is believed to be the first dual-mode diesel-electric tractor prototype in development in North America, will be based on an International Class 8 ProStar tractor and powered by an engine developed by Cummins Inc.
ArvinMeritor will provide the tandem axle, regenerative braking system, air disc brakes and advanced ABS with integrated stability control and driver assistance systems (from Meritor WABCO Vehicle Control Systems), software, electronic controls, transfer case, motors, as well as the battery power from a third party.
“ArvinMeritor is a leader in all areas of drivetrain and brake system development for heavy-duty commercial vehicles and is an ideal partner for Wal-Mart for the development of this dual-mode diesel-electric systems,” said Tim Yatsko, senior vice president-transportation for Wal-Mart. “We knew it would take a highly integrated approach, and we believe ArvinMeritor understands all of the pieces of the puzzle needed to complete this picture.”
Wal-Mart had announced earlier that in the next 10 years, it intends to double the fuel efficiency for its fleet of heavy-duty trucks.
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