GAFFNEY, S.C. — Walk-in vans built by Freightliner Custom Chassis (FCC) can now be retrofit with hybrid-electric drivetrains, according to the company.

The retrofit program began last November and so far about 100 MT-45 walk-in van chassis have been fitted with hybrid components, the company says. It allows fleets to capitalize on the lower emissions and fuel consumption offered by hybrids without the cost of purchasing an entirely new vehicle.

The retrofit program involves removing old powertrain equipment and replacing it with the Eaton hybrid-electric system.

“Rather than buying a new body and new chassis, FCC is retrofitting older, traditional diesel-powered MT-45 walk-in van chassis with a new hybrid-electric system, allowing for a significant cost savings,” said Jonathan Randall, director of sales and marketing for FCC.  “We came up with a way to utilize hybrid-electric technology on older units that did not have EPA07 engines and provide an innovative and successful solution.”