Environment DEC
From the January 2007 issue
First Plug-in Hybrid Added to State Fleet
A new plug-in hybrid car that is being added to New York State's vehicle fleet represents another step toward reducing our dependence on imported energy and protecting our environment. In 2006, a $10 million program was launched to convert more than 570 state-owned hybrid vehicles to plug-in hybrids, which can achieve greater mileage with lower emissions of harmful pollutants.
Plug-in hybrids utilize a rechargeable
electric battery and fuel
- photo courtesy of National
Renewable Energy Laboratory
The vehicle being added to the state fleet is a plug-in Prius with a converted electric power pack that is expected to achieve 100 miles or more per gallon. It is the first introduced as part of a two-phase program conducted by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). Plans call for the conversion of two Priuses followed by three Ford Escape SUVs and a Honda Civic for technical evaluation.
Converted vehicles will use standard 110-volt household current, a departure from previous electric vehicles that required higher voltage hookups. The vehicles can be charged overnight, which would take advantage of lower, off-peak utility electric rates where offered. New power packs designed by the converting contractors feature different technologies, and the competition among four specialty companies will provide many new and innovative ideas to the existing hybrid systems.
The vehicles will be delivered during the first quarter of 2007 for testing and evaluation by NYSERDA staff and consultants, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Energy. Once the vehicles have proven reliable, they will be placed in fleet service during the second quarter of 2007 for use by various state agencies.
Related Links
Plan to Cut Dependence on Imported Energy
