We're Driving A Green Fleet
At Toronto Hydro-Electric System Limited, our Fleet Services are committed to the use of alternate fuels as a means of reducing air pollution from vehicle exhaust emissions. Our award winning Biodiesel fleet has already gained national recognition for its environmental benefits.
To support our policy, we have a wide range of fleet projects underway, including:
- Biodiesel fuel
- Natural gas-powered vehicles
- Electric vehicles
- Ethanol enhanced fuel
- Anti-idling devices
Today our entire diesel fleet of 400. runs on biodiesel. As a result Toronto Hydro-Electric System received the 'Award of Excellence' during National Transportation Week 2002.
Biodiesel is made from renewable, biodegradable resources - making it a much cleaner alternative to tradition fuels. Using biodiesel substantially reduces emissions of unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, sulphates, and particulate matter.
Natural-Gas Powered Vehicles
Beginning in January 2001, our Fleet Services began giving preference to the purchase/lease of cars and light duty trucks powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). CNG alternate-fuelled cars and pick-up trucks have significantly lowered exhaust emissions and reduced our dependency on non-renewable fossil fuels.
Electric Vehicles
Currently we have seven electric-powered vehicle:
- Our all-electric van uses battery power and produces no exhaust emissions. It has a range of about 95 kilometres in city driving, with a top speed of 85 kilometres per hour.
- Our six electric/gasoline hybrid vehicles reduce tailpipe emissions by improving fuel efficiency.
Anti-Idling Devices
By reducing engine idling time, we reduce exhaust emissions. Our fleet has several initiatives to cut engine idling:
- Since 1998, all new Toronto Hydro aerial device trucks have been fitted with fibre optic engine start-stop devices. This allows aerial device operators to shut off and re-start their trucks' engines from aloft, therefore reducing engine idling.
- Since 1999, all new Toronto Hydro-Electric System Limited medium-duty trucks have been specified with anti-idling devices. This device works with the truck's engine computer and is programmed to automatically shut off the engine if there has been no activity in a pre-determined time period.