Kawasaki, Japan – Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), an integral part of Daimler Trucks, exhibited its Aero Star Eco Hybrid bus at the Eco Car World 2009 in Japan. Last February, the low-energy-usage bus received the “Energy Conservation Center Chairman’s Prize” from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. The extremely energy-efficient hybrid bus won the award in the category “Excellent Energy Conservation Equipment/System.” The prize was presented at the 33rd Energy and Environment Exhibition (ENEX) 2009 in Tokyo.

Eco Car World 2009 took place in Yokohama, Japan, from June 6 to 7. The event was intended in general to boost acceptance of low-emission vehicles and promote their widespread use. In addition to displaying the vehicles, the event offered visitors an opportunity to enjoy test drives.

The Aero Star Eco Hybrid, a large non-step route bus, is currently in production for the Japanese market. The bus is equipped with a series-type hybrid system that substantially reduces energy consumption. The series-type hybrid runs only on an electric motor and generates power using a diesel engine. Certified as a Low Emission Vehicle, the bus reduces NOx and particulate matter emissions to a level ten percent below that required by Japan’s New Long-Term Emission Regulations of 2005. In addition, the Aero Star Eco Hybrid bus significantly exceeds Japan’s 2015 fuel efficiency standard for heavy-duty vehicles, making it well-prepared for meeting long-term future needs.

MFTBC has been developing hybrid vehicles for over ten years. Besides the Aero Star Eco Hybrid bus, the company also offers the Mitsubishi Fuso Canter Eco Hybrid light truck for the Japanese market. In August 2008, the company and eight of its customers began to jointly conduct a fleet test of these hybrid vehicles in London. Last August, MFTBC also opened the Global Hybrid Center of Daimler Trucks in Kawasaki.

The Aero Star Eco Hybrid is part of the “Shaping Future Transportation” initiative for Daimler commercial vehicles. The aim of this global initiative is to develop clean and efficient drive systems and alternative fuels that will make zero-emission commercial vehicles a reality in the future.