State of Connecticut Fleet goes Hybrid

http://www.ct.gov/governorrell/cwp/view.as...Q=292974&A=1761

STATE OF CONNECTICUT
EXECUTIVE CHAMBERS
HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT 06106

M. Jodi Rell
Governor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2005
Contact: Dennis Schain
860-524-7313
[email protected]

Governor Rell Announces State Fleet Purchase of
Alternative Fuel and Hybrid Vehicles

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that she will bring cleaner and more fuel efficient cars to Connecticut.

“The state will purchase 575 alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles for our Fleet Operations,†Governor Rell said. “Some of these new vehicles will get up to 60 miles to the gallon and will help us to protect our environment. We continue to look for ways to improve our air quality and reduce our use of fossil fuels. Buying these vehicles and putting them into use is a major step in the right direction.

“The state’s purchase of these alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles will set an example for others to follow. As we put more of these vehicles into use, we create positive change that will benefit our nation for generations to come. In choosing cleaner cars, we are choosing better public health. We can literally improve the quality of life for millions of people who breathe Connecticut air. Because these vehicles also use less gasoline, we are choosing to reduce our dependence on imported oil.â€

“This new vehicles contract will also help Connecticut’s cities, schools and non-profit organizations. They are able to ‘piggy-back’ their purchases off of this state contract and take advantage of our leveraged buying power. Having contracts for hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles will make it easier for towns to get better prices on cars that are easier on the environment and more fuel efficient. Buying green also means saving green.â€

The vehicles to be purchased by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) were chosen based on information published in the Model Year 2005 Fuel Economy guide published by the U.S. Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency. The vehicles are expected to be purchased and integrated into the state’s fleet starting early this summer.

The final contracts for the purchase of the hybrid vehicles have already been signed. The models to be purchased include: Honda Civic, Toyota Prius, Chevy Silverado, Ford Escape and GMC Sierra. Final contracts are still being negotiated for the alternative fuel vehicles.

The Governor commended DAS Commissioner Linda J. Yelmini for the agency’s initiatives in promoting environmentally preferable purchasing.

Content Last Modified on 5/20/2005 4:23:17 PM

 

This is in addition to Connecticut exempting its 6% state sales tax for hybrid vehicles since last October.