New York Helps Nonprofit, Commercial Fleets Convert to Alternative Fuels

Fleets are converting to CNG, electric, and hybrid-electric vehicles.

June 2009

A state and local government partnership in New York has awarded more than $6.6 million to private and nonprofit organizations operating in New York City, to help their vehicle fleets improve efficiency and reduce emissions.

Funding is provided through the New York City Private Fleet Alternative Fuel/Electric Vehicle Program. The program is a cooperative effort by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the New York City Department of Transportation. In previous rounds, the program awarded a total of $7 million. Money for the project originates with U.S. Department of Transportation Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality funds.

"We have an obligation in government to take a leadership role in replacing this nation's automobile fleet with fuel efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. In New York, we have already begun this process, and these grants will help to spur the private sector to do the same," said Governor David A. Paterson.

The awards will go to 14 companies to add compressed natural gas (CNG), electric, and hybrid electric vehicles to their fleets or to convert existing vehicles to run on alternative fuels or technology. A sample of the latest projects:

• Frito Lay will receive $200,295 to purchase five electric delivery trucks and associated charging equipment.
• Federal Express Corporation will receive $1,225,000 to purchase 50 hybrid electric delivery trucks to replace older, traditional models.
• Anheuser-Busch will use $1,160,720 to convert 22 heavy-duty trucks to run on CNG, replacing gasoline-powered vehicles.

For more information, read the NYSERDA April 2 press release.