Finance and Administration Cabinet
Hybrids; Flexible fuel vehicles added to state fleet

FRANKFORT, Ky.— The Finance and Administration Cabinet’s Division of Fleet Management has replaced some larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles traditionally included in the state motor pool with more energy efficient and environmentally friendly models.

The state’s motor vehicle fleet currently has 19 hybrid vehicles. These vehicles include the Toyota Prius, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid, Honda Civic Hybrid and Honda Insight. These vehicles replaced larger SUVs and trucks that had previously been used primarily by field staff in the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet (EPPC), which estimates that its average fuel cost has been reduced by 52 percent as a result of this hybrid technology.

In comparison to traditional fuel-powered vehicles, the above-listed hybrids also reduced harmful emissions from approximately 109,000 pounds to approximately 2,250 pounds for the same mileage according to the Division of Fleet Management.

In addition to the introduction of hybrid technology to the fleet, nearly 1,200 flexible fuel vehicles are also currently included in the state’s motor vehicle fleet. These vehicles are designed to run on a mixture of unleaded gasoline and an alcohol fuel, either ethanol or methanol.

As aging vehicles are replaced in the state fleet, the division is also looking to replace larger vehicles with more energy efficient vehicles while still meeting agency needs. Smaller, lighter automobiles require fewer materials to produce and decreases emissions. Fleet Management is also investigating the use of electric service vehicles and other forms of fuel alternatives. 

Kentuckians will join others across the world in celebrating Earth Day on Saturday, April 22.  Spearheaded by the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet, a number of state agencies, local governments, businesses and organizations have joined together to celebrate Earth Day in the Commonwealth.  Some of these partners have organized environmental activities throughout the month of April while others are providing information and resources on protecting Kentucky’s environment.

This is the third year in a row for a month-long, organized campaign in celebration of Earth Day.  Among activities planned are hikes, special events, college campus programs, environmental award presentations and demonstrations of new, environmentally friendly technology.  Visit the state Earth Day Web site at www.earthday.ky.gov to learn more about Kentucky's Earth Day celebration.

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