Azure Dynamics Announces Sale of 50 More Hybrid Trucks
A day after announcing the largest sale in its history, 600 hybrid trucks to Canada's Purolator, Oak Park-based Azure Dynamics Corp. (OTC: AZDDF) announced the sale of 50 more to an unnamed "world leading logistics organization."
This same cusxtomer earlier had previously submitted Azure's largest single order of its Ford Transit Connect Electric small delivery vans -- 30 units.
"We've long believed that commercial fleet organizations have room for several different alternative energy technologies," said Azure CEO Scott Harrison. "Our product portfolio reflects this belief by offering the market-leading Balance Hybrid Electric solution and the innovative Transit Connect Electric EV van. Azure's latest order demonstrates that the same customer is often interested in multiple technologies and vehicle platforms to best serve diverse fleet needs. We intent to meet that need with industry best solutions."
The Azure Balance Hybrid Electric powertrain is integrated on a Ford E450 chassis with a Ford 5.4-liter gasoline engine. The hybrid electric drive train features unique attributes such as engine-off at idle and below 20 miles per hour, while electronically supporting key ancillary functions like power steering and braking, is ideally suited for commercial activity in urban environments.
The 50 units are scheduled for delivery to the logistics carrier during the second quarter of 2011 for facilities located in the United States. The units described in this order will include the Balance Hybrid Electric second generation architecture characterized by the Johnson Controls-Saft lithium ion battery plus many other upgrades designed to improve efficiency, reliability and durability. As a result, the Balance Hybrid Electric can improve fuel economy by up to 40 percent, while reducing carbon emissions by up to 30 percent in city conditions. The drive train also offers a significant reduction in maintenance costs versus conventionally equipped competitors.
More at www.azuredynamics.com.
