City Rolls Out New "Green" Fleet

For Immediate Release
DATE: March 23, 2005

From: Joe Guill, City Fleet Manager
(847) 926-1152 office

HIGHLAND PARK, IL- A new type of vehicle is hitting the streets in Highland Park, replacing a fleet of 25 semi-retired police patrol cars. Following a tradition of seeking new ways to be environmentally conscious, Highland Park will discontinue the practice of using retired patrol cars as pool vehicles and replace them with a new energy efficient fleet of 21 hybrid-electric vehicles. The Toyota Prius vehicles operate on both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor powered by on-board batteries. The gas/electric combination results in a significant improvement in gas mileage. In addition to reducing dependence on fossil fuels and improving the environment, hybrids offer cost savings over the lifetime of vehicle ownership.

Highland Park previously continued using the Crown Victorias after they were "retired" when high mileage excluded the 8-cylindar vehicles from patrol duties. Rather than auction the vehicles, they remained in city service as pool vehicles, operated by building inspectors, engineering technicians, and other staff for day-to-day duties. Under the new program, the vehicles will be sold after they are not suitable for police use.

The new white hybrid vehicles are currently in use and are specially marked with "hybrid electric vehicle" as well as the standard city markings. The vehicles were acquired under a 5-year lease-purchase option. To schedule a demonstration of the vehicle, please contact Patrick Brennan at (847) 926-1003.