There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding the futuristic truck Walmart showcased at the Mid-America Trucking Show recently. Walmart, which operates one of the largest fleets in the nation, is aiming to double fleet efficiency by 2015.
While the prototype currently runs on diesel, it uses a fuel neutral turbine that can run on liquid or compressed natural gas or biofuel as well. Other features include a more aerodynamic body, range extension for metropolitan areas, and component electrification like power steering and air conditioning.
The new trucks in the fleet also have a charge mode where the truck automatically detects how charged the batteries are and can charge them and switch to the turbine engine if needed, electric vehicle mode ideal for urban areas, and hybrid electric mode for maximum range.
Since 2005, Walmart has demonstrated an 84-percent improvement in efficiency.