ComEd Takes Delivery of New Advanced Odyne Systems Plug-In Hybrid Digger Derrick

Waukesha, WI – January 27, 2012 – Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd), one of the largest utilities in the United States, has taken delivery of the first digger derrick featuring an advanced Odyne plug-in hybrid propulsion system that will lower fuel costs up to 50%, reduce emissions and help create a quiet, safe working environment with good work site communications.  The plug in hybrid system uses energy from a large advanced battery system to improve efficiency and power during driving, operate quietly in an all-electric mode at the job site, and is recharged using cleaner domestically produced electricity from the grid.  ComEd provides service to approximately 3.8 million customers across Northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state’s population.  The Terex Commander 4042 digger derrick features a DUECO, Inc. flatbed on an IH 4300 chassis and will be used to maintain the electrical grid within the City of Chicago.  

  

The hybrid digger derrick was funded in part by a $4 million award ComEd received in federal economic stimulus funding to expand its alternative-fuel fleet.  ComEd received a $1.5 million grant from the City of Chicago that stems from $15 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding awarded to the city by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) under its Clean Cities Grant program.

“Diesel vehicles and equipment are significant contributors to air pollution and greenhouse gas emission in Chicago. By adopting innovative vehicle technologies, such as ComEd’s new hybrid truck, we can improve the health of our residents and save money on fuel costs,” the City of Chicago’s Chief Sustainability Officer Karen Weigert said.

A leader in plug-in hybrid technology, Odyne has developed proprietary and patented hybrid technology combining reliable electric power conversion, power control and energy storage technology with Remy advanced electric propulsion motors, modular Johnson Controls lithium-ion battery systems and other robust, automotive quality components. The Odyne plug-in hybrid drive system reduces fleet operating and maintenance costs and, depending on duty cycle, enables large trucks to obtain fuel economy improvements of up to 50% or greater compared to traditional diesel engines.  Odyne hybrid systems are modular and can be applied and retrofitted to a wide range of work vehicles.

Joe Dalum, President of Odyne Systems, LLC noted, “We are excited to bring this advance in technology to ComEd and the communities it serves.  The Odyne Hybrid Power system is the new benchmark for hybrid systems, with unique features for optimum performance.” 

About Odyne Systems, LLC

Odyne is a leader in hybrid drive systems for medium and heavy duty vehicles. Odyne’s advanced plug-in hybrid technology enables trucks over 14,000 pounds to have substantially lower fuel consumption, lower emissions, improved performance, quieter job site operation and reduced operating and maintenance costs. Odyne has fielded more plug-in hybrid trucks to fleets throughout the United States than any other supplier. The company sells its unique modular hybrid system for new and retrofit applications direct to truck manufacturers and through a global distribution and service network. The name Odyne represents the combination of “O” for Optimal and “dyne” for power or force.  Odyne’s hybrid system for medium and heavy duty trucks represents the best hybrid power solution for large trucks.  For further information, visit us at www.odyne.com and follow us on Twitter @Odyne.

About DUECO, Inc.
DUECO is the largest provider of Terex bucket trucks, digger derricks, and cranes for the utility market in the nation. DUECO also manufactures hybrid utility trucks and custom utility truck bodies and distributes mini derricks, aerial lifts, stringing equipment and trailers.  Family owned and operated since 1955, DUECO’s philosophy of teamwork, integrity, and open communication with customers and employees ensures high quality equipment at the best value.  With headquarters in the Metro Milwaukee area, DUECO services customers 24/7 in fifteen states. To learn more about DUECO and what the company can offer, please call us at 800-558-4004 or visit us on the web at dueco.com.

About Johnson Controls Power Solutions

Johnson Controls Power Solutions is the global leader in lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for Start-Stop, hybrid and electric vehicles.  Their 50 manufacturing, recycling and distribution centers supply more than one third of the world’s lead-acid batteries to major automakers and aftermarket retailers.  Through innovations they are building the advanced battery industry for hybrid and electric vehicles.  They were the first company in the world to produce lithium-ion batteries for mass-production hybrid vehicles.  The company commitment to sustainability is evidenced by their world-class technology, manufacturing and recycling capabilities. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

About Remy International, Inc.

Remy International, Inc., headquartered in Pendleton, Indiana, is a leading global manufacturer, remanufacturer and distributor of light duty starters and alternators and Delco Remy brand heavy-duty systems. Remy International also manufactures and distributes electric motors designed with leading edge technology and backed by the security of over a billion miles of proven reliability. In business for over 100 years, today Remy International is actively collaborating with companies throughout the world to develop innovations that are transforming the vehicle industry. For details about the HVH Series electric motors, please visit the Remy website at www.remyinc.com/hvh.asp.