Pacific Gas and Electric Company and Efficient Drivetrains Incorporated (EDI) have unveiled a new Class 6 PHEV utility truck with exportable power capacity that can be used to manage both planned and unplanned outages.

The plug-in hybrid drivetrain offers an electric range of 50 miles, and reduces emissions by 80 percent compared to legacy vehicles. The unit’s exportable power feature, which has a capacity of up to 160 kW, can power up to 125 homes, potentially eliminating planned outages while shortening unplanned outages.

PG&E operates what it calls the greenest fleet in the utility industry, including around 1,000 electric and hybrid vehicles.

“These trucks not only will help us reduce our fuel costs and carbon footprint, but in the event of an outage, we would be able use their exportable power capacity to supply electricity to homes and businesses. Being able to partner with a company that operates a manufacturing plant in the heart of our service area will also help us meet our goal of creating economic vitality in the communities we serve,” said Dave Meisel, Senior Director of Transportation and Aviation Services for PG&E.

Source: Pacific Gas and Electric