FedEx rolls out hybrid vans

FedEx Express has introduced two hybrid delivery vehicles to its service, marking what its president claims is the start of a long-term commitment to cleaner transport.

The vehicles will operate in California and should decrease soot (particulate emissions) by 90%, decrease smog-causing emissions (nitrogen oxides) by 75% and increase fuel economy by 50%.

FedEx president David Bronczek said: "This hybrid electric truck demonstrates that technology is available now to begin to achieve environmental goals and meet our operational requirements. The environmental and business gains of this project signal a revolution in truck technology and set a new standard for the industry."

The programme is a joint venture, funded and supported by Environmental Defense, FedEx Express, the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District, and Eaton Corporation.

The Californian governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, was on the steps of the state capitol to help launch the first two vehicles. He said: "I'm a very a happy governor today to see that we are finally cleaning up our air and at the same time have economic progress.”