 |
| Original News Release |
|
| Original News Release |
Hybrid
Technology – Less Fuel and Reduced Air Pollution
According
to federal data, transportation is responsible for about 40 per cent of B.C.’s
greenhouse gas emissions. The recently released ‘Weather, Climate and the
Future: B.C.’s Plan’ requires ministries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Increasing the use of hybrid vehicles will help the Province achieve those
targets.
A
hybrid-electric vehicle (hybrid) is one that uses a combination internal
combustion engine and electric motor, powered by a rechargeable battery pack.
Recharging results from a combination of the engine operation and the energy
captured in braking. There is no need to plug these vehicles in for recharging.
Hybrids
use less fuel during certain portions of the drive cycle, primarily in
stop-and-go situations like urban commuting. When
hybrid cars “idle” the gasoline engine will completely stop running, provided
it is up to operating temperature and the air conditioner or heater/defroster
are not activated. Hybrids do not emit greenhouse gases when “idling” in electric mode. This means fuel
cost savings and lower smog-related emissions and CO2, a greenhouse gas. Since
vehicles are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, hybrid technology
offers a way to lessen their overall impact on climate change.
Hybrid
Performance – Lower Fuel Costs and Better Fuel Efficiency
In
November 2004, Fleet Challenge B.C./Fraser Basin Council released its report on
the performance of 100 hybrid vehicles tested in B.C., which documented
substantially lower fuel costs and reduced air pollution. Most of the hybrids
tested were 2001 model Priuses from the B.C. Government fleet. These vehicles
were driven a total of 2.5 million km across the province in all types of
weather and road conditions – without problems.
The
average fuel efficiency for the Priuses in government’s fleet was 5.83
litres/100 km. These vehicles reduced greenhouse gas emissions by more than 25
per cent and surpassed the fuel efficiency of their gasoline counterparts,
which average approximately 7.9 litres/100 km.
2005
Hybrid Models Available to ministries
·
Toyota
Prius – a compact, four-door sedan.
·
Ford
Escape – a compact, front-wheel or all-wheel-drive SUV.
·
GM
Sierra – a full-size, half-ton extended cab, 4X2 or 4X4 pickup.
-30-
|
contact: |
Communications Director Ministry of Management Services 250 356-9869 |
|
|
|
||
|
Visit the Province's website at www.gov.bc.ca for online information and services. |
||
