LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Eaton is launching a hydraulic hybrid retrofit program allowing municipalities and other refuse haulers to convert their trash trucks to hybrids.

Eaton’s Hydraulic Launch Assist (HLA) hybrid power system will soon be available for retrofit through qualified partners and installers, the company announced.

“By retrofitting existing trucks, Eaton is giving our customers a best-of-both-worlds scenario,” said Seth Deutsch, manager, hybrid market planning. “Until now, our refuse market customers in North America have been frustrated in their efforts to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions in fleets of newer trucks with many years of service left in them. They have been asking for a hybrid solution that does not require the purchase of a new truck, and we’re pleased to deliver the retrofit option.” 

Eaton’s HLA system consists of a conventional powertrain which is supplemented by a hydraulic system that propels the truck forward and helps slow it down. Eaton claims refuse haulers can reduce fuel consumption by 20-30% using the HLA system while also extending brake life and improving productivity thanks to the extra power generated by the system.

Eaton is currently seeking partners to provide the conversions and plans to make the retrofits available later this year.