Best case scenario? Demand picks up and they boost production. Worst case scenario? They don’t sell, and GM closes the plant in the not-so-distant future.

The Silverado and Sierra hybrids are expected out by the end of 2008. The new two-mode hybrid system should boost fuel efficiency by 40% during city driving. You can find out more here.

Source: CTV.ca, NewCarTestDrive.com

[Image: Newscom]

Post from: EveryJoe

GM reverses decision, hybrid trucks in Oshawa

As much of a problem as I give their marketing team, UPS has done a wonderful job of trying to keep their emissions down by utilizing the technology at hand. In fact, they’re trying to become part of the solution by working with the EPA on developing new vehicles meant for deliveries.

Recently the delivery company purchase 200 new hybrid electric vehicles, set for delivery in 2009, and another 300 vehicles that operate on compressed natural gas. That order is tremendous, and increases their “alternative” fleet by 30%.

In the last year, UPS has also added over 40 ZAP electric vehicles, and 300 trucks which can run off compressed natural gas or propane to their fleet. The recent order should prevent hundreds of thousands of pounds in emissions from being released each year.

UPS may still have thousands of gas-guzzling, emissions-belching trucks on the road, but they are committed to making the differences that they can. Not entirely altruistic on their part, the move to alternative vehicles is also saving them a tremendous amount in fuel costs each year.

It’s a phenomenal move, and one that will hopefully catch on with other delivery companies.

[Sources: BizJournal, Greenbiz ]

Post from: EveryJoe

UPS Leads Fuel Efficient Delivery Companies