Our Commitment

A Better World

Hybrid Vehicles

 

Hybrid Electric Vehicle
There are now 100 FedEx hybrid electric vehicles operating in locales including United States, Canada, Japan and Europe. FedEx hybrids have accumulated more than 1,000,000 miles in revenue service.

  • Eighty-eight hybrid electric vehicles are operating in New York, NY; Portland, OR; Tampa, FL; San Francisco, CA; Sacramento, CA; Chicago, IL; Memphis, TN; Ann Arbor, MI and Washington, D.C.
  • Seven hybrid electric vehicles are operating in Tokyo, Japan and Toronto, ON
  • 42% better fuel economy than current, conventional diesel vehicles
  • 30% reduction in CO2 emissions (greenhouse gas)
  • 96% reduction in particulate matter emissions
  • 10 new manufactured by Iveco have been added to the FedEx Fleet in Europe.

In 2006, additional hybrids were added, but commercial hybrid vehicles are not yet in full production by commercial vehicle manufacturers. Currently, FedEx Freight is actively testing hydrogen fuel cell forklifts, hybrid electric Class 7 trucks, and alternative fuels.

Hydraulic Hybrid
FedEx Ground is working with industry experts to develop and test hydraulic hybrid technology for use in package vans. This technology utilizes hydraulic systems to capture break energy and provide power to the vehicle increasing fuel efficiency and reducing vehicle emissions.

In December 2007, FedEx Ground and partner,  , will begin testing a Class 6 vehicle employing hybrid hydraulic technology that is expected to improve fuel mileage by greater than 50 percent and significantly reduce engine emissions. A working demo vehicle should be completed within one year.

History of Hybrids
In the year 2000, FedEx Express and Environmental Defense (a non-governmental organization) began a project to develop a medium-duty hybrid truck that could be used as a standard truck in our pick-up and delivery fleet, along with other commercial fleets. In 2003 and 2004, the first 18 of the hybrid trucks were introduced into revenue service as part of the FedEx Express OptiFleet.

The hybrid-electric powertrain effectively combines a diesel engine and electric motor to drive the vehicle. A computer determines the most efficient combination, depending on current operating conditions and driver demand. A four-cylinder engine replaces the six-cylinder version currently used in the FedEx Express delivery vehicle. The engine size is reduced because of the added power provided by the electric motor. A particulate trap has been added to the truck to further reduce emissions.

Batteries capture and store energy during the “regenerative braking” phase of the vehicle’s operation, providing a source of stored electric power for the motor during future acceleration. Therefore, all electrical charging of the battery is provided by the hybrid electric powertrain, and no external electrical infrastructure, such as a power cord or electrical outlet, is needed. This balance between conventional and electric technology is an innovative method to improve environmental performance and decrease fuel use while eliminating the need for high electrical-demand infrastructure costs.

Eaton’s hybrid electric powertrain has been placed in the standard white FedEx Express W700 delivery truck, which utilizes a Freightliner chassis and an Utilimaster body. The hybrid electric truck’s operating characteristics will remain virtually unchanged from that of a conventionally powered FedEx Express vehicle. Accordingly, the hybrid electric delivery vehicle is differentiated from the standard FedEx Express delivery vehicle only by an OptiFleet brand decal on the sides and rear of the vehicle. The hybrid electric E700 has a gross vehicle weight of approximately 16,000 pounds and a cargo capacity of approximately 670 cubic feet.

About Environmental Defense
Environmental Defense, a leading national nonprofit organization, represents more than 400,000 members. Since 1967, Environmental Defense has linked science, economics, law and innovative private-sector partnerships to create breakthrough solutions to the most serious environmental problems. The work of Environmental Defense in this project was supported by a lead grant over three years from the Richard and Rhoda Goldman Fund. Additional support was received from the Hewlett Foundation, Oak Foundation, The Pew Charitable Trusts, and the David H. Smith Foundation. For more information, visit .

About Eaton Corporation

Eaton Corporation is a global diversified industrial manufacturer with 2003 sales of $8.1 billion, and is a leader in fluid power systems; electrical power quality, distribution and control; automotive engine air management and powertrain controls for fuel economy; and intelligent drivetrain systems for fuel economy and safety in trucks. Eaton has 51,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 100 countries. For more information, visit