PITTSBURGH, PA – Hyliion is adding a spark to Class 8 engines. The vehicle hybridizing company launched its second product this week, promising to save fleets up to a combined 30% in fuel costs by electrifying traditional Class 8 tractors.

The company’s new 6X4HE system can be installed on new trucks or retrofitted on older models to create an electric subsidized Class 8 truck. Hyliion says the system is easily attached to the truck frame, and is self-contained.

Like a hybrid vehicle, the system helps to power the truck when going uphill, keeping the engine in an optimal range, and regenerative braking captures power when slowing down. Electric power is applied when necessary to keep diesel engines at their most efficient, delivering hybrid fuel savings.

An Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) uses a cooling system and battery to deliver 18,000 BTUs for 10 hours on a single charge, allowing trucks to have power without idling at rest stops. Two outlets also provide electricity in the cab. It comes with an on-board telematics system and aerodynamic components as well.

Hyliion says the product provides a 15% fuel savings through the hybrid component, 12% through the APU, and another 3% through use of the aerodynamic technology, for a combined total of up to 30% fuel savings.

Mesilla Valley Transportation, PAM Transport and Ryder all participated in testing for the device.

“Electrification is the talk of the industry,” said Scott Perry, chief technology and procurement officer for Ryder. “Hyliion provides a creative solution for long-haul over the road trucking that we feel will be of interest to current diesel fleets who are looking for an advanced technology that they can pursue in the very near future.”

The launch of the 6X4HE comes after the 2016 announcement of the company’s first offering – a similar product for trailers.

“After our trailer product announcement last year, fleets came to us and asked to have the technology put on trucks,” said CEO Thomas Healy. “The technology we designed into the trailer product plus a different approach to an APU is now available for Class 8 trucks.”

Hyliion will begin production on the unit in November.