Quote:
Originally Posted by Isaac Zachary
Sizing also is important. Close to full load is where most engines are the most efficient. But how do you size an engine to run within a small window of load and RPM? This is where a hybrid could help. If it has enough energy to help the truck accelerate or climb any sort of grade and then efficiently absorb as much as possible whenever possible (including excess from the engine on small descending inclines), then the engine could be sized much closer to an ideal size for average power needs.
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That's primarily where I think hybrid comes in. With electric assist, the engine can be downsized so that it's sized appropriately for steady cruise (plus a little extra to recharge the battery). It also allows the drivers to shut down the engines when they rest instead of idling all night.