[Imc-newsroom] City of Urbana Experiments with Electric Vehicle

[Michael Walcher]

I found this article on the city of Urbana's Website. 

http://www.city.urbana.il.us

This would make a great story if we havent covered it already !

Michael Walcher 

In June of 2001 the Urbana City Council enthusiastically endorsed the purchase of an electric hybrid vehicle. The vehicle will be tested for fleet applications. With a fleet of 147 vehicles, the City of Urbana consumes approximately 100,000 gallons of fuel per year. Chief Administrative Officer Bruce Walden has been initially reviewing the Toyota Prius for possible use in the Urbana City fleet. The Prius is a gas/electric hybrid with gas mileage promoted by the manufacturer at 55mpg. Presently, the Toyota Prius (4-seater) and Honda Insight (2-seater) are the only gas/electric hybrids available; up to eight models will be available in 2004.
   Fuel economy is the principle benefit of the hybrid vehicles. Emissions are much lower as well, since the smaller engines put out less emissions and, in the case of the Prius, the engine completely stops when the vehicle is stopped, idling, or in reverse. According to Walden, “The engine stopping at intersections is the most unusual, and sometimes disarming, characteristic of the vehicle for passengers. They are convinced the engine died.”   The Toyota Prius comes with a 100,000 mile, seven-year warranty on the nickel-metal hydride battery, located under the rear seat. “I’m often asked ‘where do you plug it in?’” says Walden, who always responds with the details of how the gas engine and regenerative brakes provide the charge for the battery. According to Walden the hybrids likely have applications to many of the fleet needs of any municipality. “The vehicles achieve the best mileage when utilized for in-town driving on local streets. We will be assigning this vehicle to parking and nuisance enforcement this spring.” The vehicle utilizes the electric engine most often when under 25mph.   Generally the vehicle handles just like any small car, according to Walden. “I got about 55mpg on a recent trip to Chicago and I had plenty of power for passing and cruising with traffic.” It does get significantly better mileage, however, when the air conditioning is turned off. The dash has a computer monitor screen that continuously displays which power system is operating and fuel mileage. “At first, this monitor is a bit distracting as the driver and passengers are fascinated by the technology,” said Walden.   In the next 24 months, Dodge and GM will have available truck electric hybrids. “I hope to acquire an early model for use in our Public Works fleet. I understand there will be ‘contractor specials’ with electrical outlets on the sides of the vehicle for small tools and equipment for use in the field.” 
Generally, there is widespread acceptance of this vehicle by City employees, particularly given its low-end torque, overall performance and high tech appeal.



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