Caterpillar unveils hybrid excavator
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It’s not as fuel efficient as a Toyota Prius, but its performance is still earth shattering.
Caterpillar has unveiled its first production hybrid excavator, the Cat 336E H.
Instead of batteries, the tracked vehicle uses a simpler and less expensive hydraulic system that stores energy through pressurization when the vehicle slows down, and then releases it to help the vehicle accelerate.
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According to the company, the system is good for a 25 percent increase in fuel economy compared to the standard 336E during the type of stop and go operation these vehicles usually see at a job site.
Sales of the 336E H begin in February, and it will be followed by a hybrid front shovel mining machine currently under development.