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Hybrid pickup trucks are moving in the right direction toward cleaner air and better fuel economy, but the question is; are they true hybrids? The hybrid pickups are called mild hybrids because they don't meet all the criteria of hybrid vehicles.

Mild hybrids can't run on electric power alone; instead the gasoline engine receives assistance' from the electric motors in stop and starts at stoplights. The electric motor also provides auxiliary power for other applications. Hybrid pickups use part of the green technology but they don't qualify to be called true green machines.

True hybrid engines are a combination of electric motors and gasoline engines that work together in supplying power to the power train and they switch from gas engine to electric power as required by driving demands.

Gains in fuel economy are minimal in mild hybrid pickups in comparison to true hybrid automobiles. The Chevy Silverado performs somewhat better than the GMC Sierra with the ability to inactivate some of its cylinders in deceleration for added fuel economy. The Silverado's auxiliary power can be used as an electric generator in the event of a power failure, and was used in that capacity in a recent NASCAR event.

Fuel economy in the GMC Sierra is only a gain of 1 or 2 miles per gallon in city and highway driving. The Chevy Silverado gains about 15% in fuel economy and both have improved numbers for fuel emissions.

The Dodge Ram manufactured by Chrysler Daimler is not available, except through fleet sales, and is also a mild hybrid boasting a secondary use of a 2400watt generator that can be used at construction or other sites where electrical power is not readily available.

2007 Chevy Silverado: Named 2007 truck of the year. Improved power and torque, doors open to 170 degrees and an all-new strengthened frame. MSRP: $29,000.
Available in - 2WD or 4WD
5.3L V8 Vortec engine, 295 hp, 335 lb. torque
20 amp, 2400w generator (auxiliary power)
18/21 mpg
Reduces emissions
Towing capacity 6700 lbs.

2007 GMC Sierra: MSRP: 29,300.
Available in -2WD or 4WD
5.3L V8 Vortec engine, 295 hp, 335 lb. torque
120v, 20 amps
Towing capacity 10, 500 lbs.
Reduces emissions 37%
17/18mpg city, 19/21mpg highway

Dodge Ram (Fleet only)
Cummins engine, 325 hp, 600 lb torque
5.9L V8, turbo diesel,
Pickup acts as a portable generator, generates up to 20kW of power.
Integrated starter, alternator
Reduces emissions, uses E85 fuel.
16 mpg

The Energy Act of 2005 allows credits and tax deductions for customers who purchase hybrid vehicles. The credits went into effect in 2006 and will expire or undergo reevaluation in 2010. Credit amounts vary and only a select number of vehicles qualify for full credit.

Hybrid pickups do save on fuel costs, use cleaner fuel and have fewer emissions. They are the way to go, if love trucks and are interested in all the other advantages of fuel economy, fewer emissions and the opportunity to take advantage of tax credits. Expect positive changes as the technology evolves.

Sources:
http://hybridc enter.org
http://motortrend.com
http://info.com

Learn more about this author, Mona Gallagher.
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