Fleet Services

"Green Fleet" Initiative

The hybrid and standard
Ford Escapes

In keeping with the university's dedication to building a sustainable campus, Fleet Services has implemented a "Green Fleet" initiative, which includes:

1. Fuel efficient vehicles

   Fleet Services purchases the most fuel efficient vehicles possible from the state contract.

   • The Chevrolet Malibu, which comprises the majority of fleet vehicles, is rated at 32 miles per gallon (MPG).
   • Four Chevrolet Malibu hybrid vehicles were introduced in June 2008.
   • In 2006 Fleet Services began testing a hybrid Ford Escape to compare fuel usage to a standard Escape in the same operating conditions. The Escapes are used mainly on campus, which should be ideal for the hybrids. The test results will determine if the hybrid's fuel efficiency justifies the higher purchase price. As of February 2007 the hybrid Escape is averaging 10.3 MPG higher than the standard model.
2. Replacing lead wheel weights with zinc weights reduces the amount of lead in ground and storm water.
3. Recycling used motor oil allows the department to forego the purchase of 1,500 gallons of oil each year.
4. Use of high mileage tires
5. Purchase of flex-fuel vehicles

Hybrid vehicles added to daily and monthly rental fleet

On June 16, 2008 Fleet Services added four new Chevrolet Malibu hybrid vehicles to its rental fleet. This is in addition to the Ford Hybrid Escapes introduced to the monthly rental fleet in 2006. When compared to conventional gasoline or diesel powered engine vehicles, hybrid vehicles are usually quieter and release fewer gas emissions. The Chevy Hybrid Malibu is estimated to get approximately 32 mpg on the highway.