The momentum for natural gas within the North American transportation system gained another big customer today when Ford announced that Verizon Communications will purchase 501 vans outfitted with engines that burn compressed natural gas (“CNG”). Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Verizon plans to use the 2010 model Ford E-250 cargo van and save an estimated 1.62 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year compared to the output of models that run on conventional gasoline. The vans are primarily driven by technicians making house calls to install phone, cable television and Internet services.
Ken McKenney, Sustainable Fleet-Technical Engineering Lead for Verizon stated:
“Verizon’s fleet team is constantly on the watch for new, lower-carbon technology. CNG is a leading alternative fuel choice right now, so converting these cargo vans to run on the cleaner-burning fuel helps us cut CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. We will continue to find ways to increase the efficiency of our fleet.”
In March 2009, AT&T announced plans to invest $350 million into converting and purchasing vehicles powered by compressed natural gas. (See HRN: AT&T to invest in 8,000 compressed natural gas vehicles)
Press Release: Verizon to Cut CO2 Emissions by Converting 501 New Ford E-Series Vans to Run on Natural Gas
