Williamsburg, VA, June 18, 2008 -- Terex announced the development of a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) system at the Electric Utilities Fleet Managers Conference, Williamsburg, VA.

Terex and a utility fleet are currently working together to optimize a new, easy-to-implement PHEV system for the utility industry. The system is expected to make it easier for all utility truck operators to "go green."

Like other hybrid systems on the market, Terex's new PHEV vehicle provides the ability to operate the aerial lift without running the engine to save fuel, reduce emissions, and eliminate noise in residential areas. It offers other features that are new to hybrids.

Terex's hybrid system is self-contained and capable of working on virtually any stock chassis. Even old, faithful trucks that refuse to die can utilize the hybrid technology. Because it doesn't interface with the transmission, it won't increase the engine load, reducing wear and tear and enabling fleet owners to use smaller, more fuel-efficient engines.

The system can recharge on a standard 110V, 25-amp outlet. This recharges the system's absorbent glass mat (AGM) battery in eight hours, making it easy to use standard off-peak grid power.

Also, the entire system functions independently, so the mechanical integrity of the truck remains intact. Standard, "off the shelf" components like the PTO and pump are time-tested, reliable and safe to provide operators with peace of mind. The separate motor generator adds to the simplicity and reduces the cost of the system. Altogether, the system is expected to add between 1,500 and 2,000 pounds of weight to the aerial device.

Wed Jun 18 10:15:00 CDT 2008