We’ve heard of hybrid cars, plants and even fish, but how about a hybrid snowblower? Honda’s Power Equipment division came up with the idea and introduced its first hybrid snowblower model for the U.S. market.
So how does it work? The all-new Honda HS1336i hybrid combines a gasoline engine that simultaneously drives the machine’s fan apparatus for clearing and throwing the snow and charges the battery, with a pair of electric motors that control the treads upon which it moves.
In addition, the electric motors also function as a generator during deceleration of the snowblower providing electrical energy.
Honda says that the hybrid operation results in lower fuel consumption, emissions, noise and vibrations when compared to a conventional snowblower.
“Our new snowblower models reflect the Honda commitment to enhanced environmental performance and technological advancement,” said Scott Conner, vice president, Honda Power Equipment.
According to Honda, the HS1336i hybrid is capable of clearing a path up to 36 inches (920mm) wide and 23 inches (580mm) high, and can move up to 83 tons per hour at a discharge distance of up to 62.34 feet (19m).
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