FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 26, 2004
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112 

Florida Receives Clean Energy Delivery Fleet

--State welcomes first hybrid-diesel delivery trucks--

TAMPA – Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Colleen M. Castille today welcomed the first fleet of hybrid-electric diesel delivery trucks to Florida’s roads. The State of Florida is working with FedEx Express, Environmental Defense and Eaton Corporation to test the viability of low-emission, heavy-duty delivery vehicles.

“Through the joint commitment of the State, public and private partners, clean energy is now a reality in Florida,” said DEP Secretary Castille. “With drastically reduced emissions this new hybrid technology protects Florida’s air, reduces reliance on gasoline and saves money.”

One of only four states in the nation chosen to work with FedEx Express, Florida is an established leader in promoting hybrid technology. The four FedEx Express delivery trucks will demonstrate the viability of diesel-electric trucks in a commercial operation and expand clean energy applications in Florida.

Florida is one of only three states east of the Mississippi meeting all federal clean air standards. With more than 20 million vehicles on Florida’s roads, burning petroleum-based fuels like gasoline is the primary cause of air pollution. This cutting-edge, clean energy technology allows trucks to travel 57 percent farther on a gallon of fuel and reduces air pollution by up to 96 percent.

Nationally, there were 43,435 U.S. registrations for passenger hybrid vehicles last year -- a 25 percent increase from 2002. Among the states, Florida had the third largest number of hybrid registrations.

Under the leadership of Governor Jeb Bush, Florida’s state agencies have committed to purchasing alternative fuel and clean energy vehicles. More than 22 percent of the DEP fleet is comprised of clean energy transportation with 50 hybrid vehicles and more than 250 alternative fuel vehicles.