Review of the Terex HyPower Hybrid Bucket Truck

Terex is claiming superiority with its introduction of the HyPower line of hybrid bucket trucks. Hybrid bucket trucks have not been around nearly as long as hybrid cars. This new adaptation of technology to heavy equipment is a break through for the industry. But just how reliable and cost effective are these truck? I plan to dissect the information and bypass the hype. Here is the low-down on the Terex HyPower bucket truck. 

Cars use a regenerative braking system that charges the battery with inertia caused by braking. This is great for stop and go traffic and driving in an urban environment. With bucket trucks in particular, they remain idling in one spot for hours on end. Thus, the use of regenerative braking is pretty much worthless. Terex created a system that allows the battery to be charged overnight via a standard socket/ plug-in. The battery charge is supposed to hold for 6 to 8 hours. After the battery looses charge, power is switched back to the regular fuel system. The HyPower system uses a very ingenuitive system that doesn’t affect towing or acceleration because its components are separate from the engine, pump, and battery. It doesn’t coincide with the OEM chasis like back driving the PTO would.

Advantages: Obviously, much better fuel efficiency, quieter motor/ engine noise, overall better job site experience.

Drawbacks: Higher initial cost, higher priced maintenance, possibility of parts breaking (resulting in very expensive replacement parts.

Terex certainly didn’t invent the technology behind the hybrid bucket truck, but I believe this product line will serve as a benchmark for the industry for years to come. To sum up my feelings, I do believe that hybrid bucket trucks and other heavy equipment still need refining. A major drawback is the cost of maintenance and replacing parts. The other big drawback regards the price point of acquiring the equipment. Typically,  it will take at least 5 years before the savings in gas overtakes the difference of price between hybrid and diesel. Of course, early adopters will be lined up for it. More conservative business owners will certainly want to wait until the HyPower line of bucket trucks is more refined and the price point lowers.