Florida Adds 21 Escape Hybrids to State Fleet

25 February 2005

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has received the first two of 21 Ford Escape Hybrid SUVs. The addition of the 21 Escape hybrids will bring DEP’s hybrid fleet to 71.

The DEP fleet also contains more than 200 alternative fuel vehicles. Combined, the alt fuel and hybrids constitute some 20% of the entire DEP fleet.

Selecting hybrid vehicles for the State vehicle fleet reinforces Florida’s commitment to clean air and environmental protection. Using low-emission hybrid vehicles protects Florida’s air, reduces our reliance on gasoline and saves taxpayer dollars.

Through a commitment to purchasing hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles, we are demonstrating that these vehicles are the future of transportation.

—DEP Secretary Colleen M. Castille

Florida is also one of four states working with FedEx Express, Environmental Defense and Eaton Corporation to test the heavy-duty hybrid-electric diesel delivery vehicles.