Sacramento—The state Department of General Services (DGS), in cooperation with the Sacramento Municipal Utilities District (SMUD), has placed into service a pair of electric pick-up trucks that will be used by Capitol Park maintenance workers.

 

"Using these trucks demonstrates the practical use of electric vehicles in reducing emissions and preserving the natural beauty of the park," said DGS Office of Fleet Administration Chief Tim Bow. "We are pleased to be part of the solution to air pollution in the Capitol area."

 

The electric-powered trucks, a Chevrolet S-10 and a Ford Ranger, will be able to travel 80 miles before needing to "fill-up" their batteries at a charging station installed by SMUD at Capitol Park’s maintenance building.

 

"This partnership is an important part of our message to the Sacramento public; Electric Vehicles are here today, helping solve our air pollution problem, and are a viable form of transportation," said SMUD’s Electric Transportation Department Manager Michael J. Wirsch. "We’re pleased to be teaming-up with DGS to improve Sacramento’s environment."

 

DGS has partnered with SMUD to install electric vehicle charging stations elsewhere in Sacramento, including the Capitol garage, as part of the State’s commitment to leading the way in reducing harmful emissions. In all, there are more than 100 charging stations in Sacramento, including several at the International Airport and Arden Fair Mall.

 

"These vehicles will assist our landscaping crews in preserving an environmentally sensitive urban landscape," said DGS Building and Property Management Chief Rosamond Bolden. "Capitol Park will be greener because of it."

 

In addition to 32 electric vehicles that are used by state employees on government business, the state’s fleet includes approximately 1,900 low-emission cars, trucks and vans powered by natural gas and methanol.