One of the many benefits of a plug-in hybrid work truck is the ability to run power tools without the noise and stink of an idling diesel engine.

Wisconsin-based Odyne Systems LLC sells a modular plug-in hybrid drive system for medium- and heavy-duty trucks that can be installed in a new vehicle or as a retrofit. The Odyne system can provide scalable pure sine exportable power at up to 6 kW or greater, and provides consistent power conversion throughout the entire range of the battery charge – if battery capacity drops, the hybrid system temporarily starts the engine as needed.

Odyne Systems has already delivered several trucks to utilities around the country under a DOE-financed program to accelerate the development of PHEV systems.

According to Odyne, its hybrid system can save up to 50% in fuel costs compared to legacy engines, depending on duty cycle.

The Odyne power system interfaces with Allison automatic transmissions, Remy electric motors and Johnson Controls lithium-ion battery technology. The inverter features external mounting capabilities, diagnostics and communications capabilities for power use reporting and customized programming.

“Odyne closely collaborated with one of the world’s leaders in power conversion technology and manufacturing to develop the unique and proprietary advanced export power inverter that is a key component within the system,” said John Petras, Vice President of Engineering at Odyne. “This technology, combined with our existing plug-in charging and smart grid capability, also takes Odyne one step closer to providing more advanced functionality, such as vehicle to grid bi-directional capabilities.”

Source: Odyne Systems