Seth Skydel – Page 3 – Utility Fleet Professional

Green News

Written by Seth Skydel on July 26, 2013. Posted in Smart Fleets.

Purchasing fuel-efficient technology may be one of the best options utility fleets have to reduce costs. Now, significant and easily accessible funding is becoming more readily available.

In California, one program that is proving highly beneficial is the Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP). Similar programs may also be coming soon to other parts of the country, including New York state and the city of Chicago, among others.

Now in its third year, HVIP is administered and implemented through a partnership between the California Air Resources Board and CALSTART, the clean transportation technology and fuels consortium. To date, more than $28 million has been delivered through the program, and 1,200+ hybrid and electric vehicles have been delivered. Additional funding is available to both public and private utility and telecom companies.

HVIP is designed to offset about half of the additional cost of eligible vehicles, including hybrid, battery-electric, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses. Vouchers range from $8,000 to $55,000 per vehicle depending on the vehicle size and model and the total number of vehicles purchased. Approved voucher amounts are deducted at the time of purchase.

Vehicles that are outfitted with hybrid aerial boom lifts, such as the Altec JEMS, are eligible for funding even if the lifts are installed on a vehicle without a hybrid driveline. Other manufacturers with eligible hybrid vehicles include Freightliner, Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp., Peterbilt, Kenworth, Hino, Altec, Autocar and Thomas Built. Current electric vehicle offerings include Smith Electric, Electric Vehicles International and Boulder Electric.

HVIP is also a fit for school districts and bus companies, and there are several different makes and models of buses currently eligible for the program. In the Kings Canyon Unified School District, which serves students in a 600-square-mile area in California, alternative fuel vehicles were purchased using funds from a variety of sources.

Included were five hybrid-electric school buses built by International Coach using HVIP as a main source of funding combined with funds from the California Air Resources Board (ARB)/San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District Lower-Emission School Bus Program, the Federal Highway Administration Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program or Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District/U.S. EPA Diesel Emissions Reduction Act, and Fresno County Transportation Authority Measure C funds. The school district also received funding for an ARB AB 118 Air Quality Improvement Program Hybrid/Electric School Bus Demonstration Project to allow neighboring school districts to test the advanced technology buses.

“We continue to seek grant award opportunities that improve our clean air goals and lessen our use of conventional petroleum fuels to reduce our cost of operations,” said John D. Clements, director of transportation at Kings Canyon.

Many of the hybrid models on the road today are outfitted with Eaton hybrid systems. In Kings County, shop technicians received advance hybrid propulsion training from the manufacturer supported by a grant from the California Energy Commission. Visit www.californiahvip.org and www.calstart.org.

HYBRIDS

Magic Valley Electric Cooperative Adds Terex HyPower Hybrid
Terex Utilities has delivered a new TL41P Hi-Ranger telescopic material-handling aerial device equipped with its HyPower Hybrid System to Texas-based Magic Valley Electric Cooperative. The unit is in use at work sites in the Rio Grande Valley.

According to Rick Mendez, fleet manager at MVEC, by utilizing plug-in electric hybrid technology to operate the truck’s boom functions and accessories, the Terex TL41P HyPower truck offers Magic Valley the opportunity to lower the carbon footprint of its utility fleet while also cutting fuel costs.

“The Terex HyPower system is designed for the electric utility industry,” Mendez said. “It gets exceptional fuel economy without sacrificing productivity. And, it’s durable in all weather conditions so we’re able to use it year-round, increasing the savings we can pass on to our members while improving environmental conditions, including diesel exhaust emissions and noise pollution.”

MVEC, headquartered in Mercedes, Texas, also has facilities in Edinburg, Pharr and Brownsville. Founded in 1937 to bring electricity to the rural areas of the Rio Grande Valley, today Magic Valley has 4,800 miles of energized lines to serve more than 100,000 residential and commercial members.

The Terex TL41P HyPower truck uses stored energy from the HyPower hybrid system’s rechargeable batteries to power the nonpropulsion functions of the vehicle. MVEC’s HyPower model can work for hours without crews needing to start the vehicle engine.

“The Terex TL41P HyPower truck has been a good fit for us,” said John Herrera, MVEC general manager. “We are pleased with the productivity on projects, and our crews especially like the quietness of the truck’s operation because they are able to more easily communicate with one another on the job site.”

Since putting the Terex TL41P HyPower unit into service earlier this spring, MVEC crews have used it to change out a transformer, as well as on routine troubleshooting tasks and while servicing customer power outages.

According to Herrera, MVEC is evaluating opportunities to add more Terex HyPower trucks to its fleet. He also said that because the hybrid system can be retrofitted, the cooperative is considering adding the system to existing trucks in its fleet. Visit www.terexhypower.com.

Altec Expands Green Technologies
The Altec AT40G JEMS Aerial Device featuring an aluminum body is among the latest products to join the manufacturer’s Green Fleet product line of sustainable solutions. Aluminum bodies, according to the company, are up to 40 percent lighter than steel and weigh about 15 percent less than fiberglass, resulting in fuel savings. The bodies also allow utility fleet customers the option of a decreased gross vehicle weight rating chassis.

Integral to the Altec Green Fleet product line is the Jobsite Energy Management System (JEMS) integrated plug-in hybrid-electric system that uses stored electrical energy to power aerial devices and tools, and provide cab comfort. The energy storage system, which is recharged by plugging into shore power or by the truck’s internal combustion engine, eliminates idle time, reduces fuel consumption and lessens noise. Altec JEMS was recently approved by the U.S. EPA and complies with anti-idle legislation. Visit www.altec.com.

Odyne Systems Receives Award
The California Energy Commission, the state’s energy policy and planning agency, has awarded Odyne Systems and CALSTART an award for Advanced Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicle Technologies Pre-Commercial Demonstrations.

Under the award, CALSTART will function as the program manager, and Odyne Systems will demonstrate the installation of diesel plug-in hybrid electric truck systems and deploy four plug-in hybrid vehicles. CEC is contributing up to $462,600 toward the projects, along with additional funding from other partners.

The Odyne hybrid power system interfaces with Allison Transmission’s fully automatic transmissions, Remy advanced electric propulsion motors, Johnson Controls lithium-ion battery technology and other components. The hybrid drive system, according to the company, reduces fleet operating and maintenance costs and, depending on duty cycle, enables trucks to obtain fuel economy improvements of up to 50 percent compared to diesel or gasoline engines. Visit www.odyne.com, www.allisontransmission.com and www.calstart.org.

Ford Expects to Double Hybrid Vehicle Production
Since their introduction last fall, Ford has seen rising demand for its C-MAX Hybrid and Fusion Hybrid vehicles among fleet customers, and now expects to double hybrid production. The sales growth, according to the OEM, is the result of savings in costs of as much as 45 percent compared to gasoline engines and typically higher resale values.

Ford now offers a number of hybrid-electric vehicles:
• C-MAX Hybrid: EPA-estimated rating of 47 mpg city, highway and combined.
• C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid: EPA-estimated city rating of 108 mpg equivalent and 21 miles of all-electric range, and an EPA-estimated gas-plus-electric range of 620 miles.
• Fusion Hybrid: EPA-estimated rating of 47 mpg city, highway and combined.
• Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid: EPA-estimated gas-plus-electric range of 620 miles, electric-only range of up to 21 miles, and EPA-estimated rating of 108 mpg equivalent city, 92 mpg equivalent highway and 100 mpg equivalent combined.

“Fleet customers are looking for fuel-efficient, durable vehicles that can withstand the daily use and duty cycles of their businesses,” said Jon Coleman, Ford commercial fleet sustainability and technology manager. “Ford’s Fusion Hybrid and C-MAX Hybrid give them the tools they need to get the job done.” Visit www.ford.com.

XL Hybrids Partners with Knapheide Manufacturing
A distribution and installation agreement between XL Hybrids, developer of a hybrid-electric powertrain for Class 1 to 3 commercial vehicles, and The Knapheide Manufacturing Co., a commercial vehicle equipment provider, will provide one-stop purchase, upfit, delivery and invoicing for fleets. Through the new partnership, Knapheide will install XL Hybrids’ technology in its existing ship-through network. Deliveries will begin in August with new 2014 model year Chevy Express and GMC Savana vans, and will cover pool vehicles and retrofits for 2010 to 2013 GM cargo vans. Visit www.xlhybrids.com and www.knapheide.com.

NATURAL GAS

Williamson County Fleet Saves on Fuel Costs with Propane Autogas
On an annual basis, by running fleet vehicles on propane autogas, Williamson County, Texas, expects to save $73,000 on fuel costs. The central Texas county began converting vehicles to propane in 2009, and now operates 36 autogas-powered units. In addition to saving fuel costs, the county was also able to take advantage of a 50-cent per gallon Alternative Fuel Motor Tax Credit, a federal incentive available through the IRS for fleets that choose propane autogas.

The 36 autogas-powered vehicles in the Williamson County fleet include eight with dedicated systems and 26 with bi-fuel systems, a popular option for converting existing vehicles to autogas.

“We are pleased to be able to convert part of our fleet to propane autogas, which is domestically produced in Texas, and is less expensive than gasoline or diesel fuels,” said Williamson County Commissioner Cynthia Long. “In addition to being more economical, autogas is cleaner burning, which makes it better for engine maintenance and emissions.”

With more than 700 fueling stations across the state, propane autogas is widely available throughout Texas. Williamson County has built six autogas fueling stations, each with a storage capacity of 2,000 pounds.

“Williamson County is just one of the many U.S. fleets making the transition to propane autogas,” said Jackie Mason, education and marketing director of the Propane Council of Texas. “Across Texas, more fleets are choosing autogas because it’s environmentally friendly, cost-effective and made in America.” Visit www.procot.org.

Alliance AutoGas Announces New Propane Autogas Vehicle Conversion Centers
Two Wisconsin companies, Dave Jones Inc. and the Fillback Family of Dealerships, have joined Alliance AutoGas to perform EPA-certified propane autogas vehicle conversions. The new conversion centers will work with Alliance fueling provider Charter Fuels. Alliance AutoGas is the exclusive U.S. distributor of Prins autogas systems, including the bi-fuel Prins Vapor Sequential Injection system, which is EPA certified for more than 200 vehicle types.

The Fillback Family of Dealerships has converted Ford Crown Victoria cruisers, Ford E-350 vans and a Chevrolet Silverado truck to propane autogas for customers. Dave Jones Inc. is a mechanical contractor that has converted seven Ford E-350s in its fleet and plans to continue adding propane autogas vehicles to its operation. Visit www.allianceautogas.com.

ROUSH CleanTech Announces Production of Ford F-650 Propane Autogas Fuel Systems
With production beginning in October, ROUSH CleanTech is now taking orders for Ford F-650 propane autogas fuel systems. Offered in two tank size configurations, the systems include an 80-gallon fuel capacity for trucks equipped with nonskirted bodies and a 45-gallon solution for skirted bodies. Both versions are a dual saddle tank design with a single refueling point.

A Tier 1 supplier, ROUSH CleanTech is the only Ford qualified vehicle modifier manufacturer offering dedicated propane autogas fuel systems. With up to a 30,000-pound gross vehicle weight rating, the propane autogas Ford F-650 delivers the same horsepower, torque and towing capacity as the OEM’s gasoline-fueled model, and has California Air Resources Board and EPA certifications.

“The new ROUSH CleanTech Ford F-650 is another example of the versatility of abundant, clean and price-competitive propane autogas,” said Roy Willis, president and CEO of the Propane Education & Research Council, which co-funded development of the fuel system.

Ford offers a full line of commercial vehicles prepped from the factory with gaseous fuel-ready engines. Visit www.roushcleantech.com.

Quantum Awarded Grant to Develop Natural Gas Truck Engine
The California Energy Commission has selected Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide to receive a natural gas fuel system and engine development grant of $1 million to develop a natural gas engine for Class 3 to 7 vehicles. Southern California Gas has also committed funding to help the project meet its technical goals.

The CEC grant will fund the development and validation of a low-cost, multiport fuel-injected natural gas fuel system and engine with advanced controls designed for Class 3 to Class 7 fleet applications. Quantum’s partners in the project include Power Solutions International, a clean-tech engine manufacturer, technology and strategy consultancy Ricardo, and the University of California, Riverside.

The project will utilize PSI’s new 8.8-liter engine and target a 20 percent improvement in fuel economy and a 16 percent improvement in power density for the natural gas version for medium-duty applications.

Two nationwide networks of truck integrators that are building the capability to convert aftermarket diesel truck fleets to run on natural gas have placed $1.4 million in orders from Quantum for its Q-Lite CNG tanks and bolt-on natural gas fuel storage systems.

Quantum has also announced an agreement with ZHRO Solutions to develop fully integrated compressed natural gas storage and fuel delivery systems for medium- and heavy-duty diesel fleets. The company will engineer and develop fuel delivery modules and integrate its Q-Lite natural gas vehicle storage systems with ZHRO’s natural gas injection/engine conversion system. Visit www.qtww.com.

GE Unveils LNG In A Box
Calling it another key step toward accelerating the use of natural gas as transportation fuel, GE Oil & Gas has introduced a small-scale, plug-and-play, redeployable liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueling solution.

LNG In A Box is a modular fueling solution with a production range of 10,000 to 50,000 gallons per day. Typical LNG tanks for heavy-duty vehicles hold an average of 70 to 150 gallons, so one 10,000-gallon-a-day system would be able to fuel up to 100 trucks per day.

Each LNG In A Box unit is equipped with a gas pretreatment system, cold box assembly and boil-off gas compressor, as well as a GE turboexpander compressor, high-speed reciprocating compressor, electric motor, driver and control system.

The LNG In A Box system will be deployed initially in Europe by Gasfin and is expected to encourage transition of trucks from diesel fuel to LNG in North America in the future. LNG In A Box units will be manufactured in the U.S. and shipped to Gasfin LNG fueling sites in Europe. Visit www.ge.com.

ELECTRIC TRUCKS

E-Truck Task Force Findings Being Put in Motion
Recommendations of the E-Truck Task Force – formed as a subgroup of the Hybrid, Electric and Advanced Truck Users Forum to target specific issues in the electric truck market and speed and support effective electric truck production and use – are being acted on by CALSTART.

Infrastructure
Actions include a newly launched program targeting workplace charging for electric vehicles. CALSTART also operates an advisory work group and is about to publish a best practices guide for installing charging systems at workplaces. The group plans several regional workshops around the country on this topic.

Vehicle Cost and Battery Contribution
E-TTF has developed a program aimed at driving higher battery pack volumes around common sizes and is working with fleets and the U.S. Army to pinpoint performance standards. Also underway is a project with the Army to validate for military and commercial use a lithium-ion version of a standardized battery module.

Incentives
The task force has accelerated work on extending incentives for electric trucks, specifically using vouchers. The group has published a white paper on the value of vouchers and how to structure a voucher program. New e-truck voucher programs have launched in New York and will be launched in Chicago.

Fleet Business Case
CALSTART has held training sessions at the NAFA Institute & Expo on life-cycle cost assessment of e-trucks and the use of its eTruck Business Case Calculator. The group is also holding regional fleet workshops on the subject.

Initially, the E-TTF issued recommendations for minimizing costs, improving vehicle quality and support, and providing better performance validation data and business case information, including data on charging infrastructure requirements and costs. Some of the task force recommendations identified core issues of trucks already in the field. That effort, testing and validating of trucks in a variety of applications continues as well. CALSTART also works with electric trucks in the California Hybrid, Efficient and Advanced Truck Research Center. Visit www.calstart.org.

TransPower Receives Grant to Develop All-Electric Tractor
The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District has awarded TransPower a grant to develop an all-electric heavy-duty tractor. The company said Class 8 electric tractors, which are capable of hauling loads up to 80,000 pounds, have shown the ability to operate for as long as 12 hours on a single battery charge. The technology includes an onboard inverter-charger that accelerates battery charging.

TransPower also offers the ElecTruck electric drive system for short duty-cycle trucks and buses. Electric drive motors are used to propel these vehicles, with all of their energy obtained from onboard batteries. Visit www.transpowerusa.com.

Chevrolet Spark Named Most Efficient U.S. Electric Vehicle
With a combined city/highway electric range estimated at 82 miles by the EPA, a fully charged 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV has a fuel economy of 119 mpg equivalent. The Spark EV goes on sale initially this summer in California and Oregon.

The Spark EV features an oil-cooled permanent magnet motor and drive unit that will produce 130 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, and a lithium-ion battery pack capable of handling multiple DC fast charges daily.

An available option is a recently approved SAE combo charger for DC fast charging that will enable the Spark EV to recharge up to 80 percent of its capacity in approximately 20 minutes. Charging can also be completed in fewer than seven hours using a dedicated 240-volt charge. Visit www.chevrolet.com.

Valuable Insight

Written by Seth Skydel on July 25, 2013. Posted in Fleet Profiles.

For the Facilities & Transportation Fleet team at Indianapolis Power & Light Co., the key to productivity and efficiency is not just the programs and technologies that have been put in place. Equally important and absolutely essential, they note, is to ingrain a process of organizational efficiency throughout the culture of the operation.

Keith Dunkel, team leader and fleet manager, Kim Garner, fleet administration, and Les Gose, fleet maintenance at IPL, all point to the successful implementation of the 5S methodology within the fleet maintenance operation. This workplace organization methodology, based on five Japanese words all beginning with the letter “S” when translated into English (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize and Sustain), has benefited the fleet’s maintenance shops through improved organization of work spaces.

“A primary focus was on the efficient and effective storage of work tools and supplies, maintaining the work area and these items, and sustaining the new order,” Dunkel said. “The decision-making process usually comes from a dialogue about standardization, which builds understanding among employees of how their work should be done.”

At IPL, the 5S methodology has brought a new cultural mindset to shop floor efficiency and safety within the fleet maintenance operation. “It’s a process that builds collaboration among employees and management specific to work design and flow,” Dunkel stated. “In addition to improving shop safety by reducing hazards, it has also provided structure within the shop environment to identify and reduce waste.”

Today, IPL crew leaders, technicians and management personnel use the 5S methodology to effectively run shop operations. A weekly safety walk, for example, is used to identify housekeeping issues, such as defective lighting or other concerns, based on a comprehensive checklist of items specific to the operation and environment.

Organized Approach
An organized approach is also in place in other areas of the IPL fleet and maintenance operation. “Three years ago,” explained Gose, “we brought in NAPA to manage our parts system. NAPA now operates our parts room as a private store, staffed 16 hours per day. The facility exclusively serves the IPL fleet, handles paperwork for our business with a local tire vendor, and as an added convenience, IPL employees can make purchases for personal use.

“With this arrangement,” Gose continued, “we are ensured competitive pricing within a consigned parts format. This has given us access to a substantial inventory without tying up financial resources for owned inventory.”

Gose also explained that IPL and NAPA are working closely together to ensure that the parts supplier is prepared to provide the wide variety of standard and specialized items needed for utility vehicles. “Our initiative is to ensure that NAPA understands our needs,” he said. “We do not want to wait for parts that we should have in stock and we expect NAPA to adjust the consignment inventory as our specs change.

“We have established and track metrics specifically to the NAPA operation,” Gose continued. “Those target wait times, fill rates and inventory location accuracy. We believe these to be core competencies for parts management and are integral to the productivity of our technicians.”

The IPL fleet is serviced in two locations, Dunkel noted. “At our main hub in Indianapolis we house about 80 percent of the fleet of 422 vehicles,” he related. “At a satellite facility we handle the other 20 percent. About 80 percent of the fleet is used in operations across our 528-square-mile service territory and the rest is allocated to our three generating plants.”

Meeting Needs
The composition of IPL’s fleet is designed to meet the needs of field operations that maintain 835 circuit miles of transmission lines and approximately 12,668 circuit miles of distribution lines, as well as 144 substations. A total of 88 heavy-duty units account for 20 percent of the fleet, another 92 are medium-duty models and the balance consists of 242 light-duty vehicles.

Primary makes represented in the IPL fleet include International heavy-duty, Freightliner and Ford medium-duty, and Chevrolet and Ford light-duty models. IPL’s alternative fuel vehicles are primarily within the light-duty segment of the fleet and use E85 from a central fueling station.

Vehicle types at IPL are varied for line, substation maintenance and construction needs, Dunkel pointed out. Aerial units supplied mainly by Altec include 45-foot models for trouble trucks, 55-foot models for line truck material handlers, 85-foot high reach noninsulated and 125-foot insulated units, and there are 42-foot material handlers and articulating squirt booms.

Also in operation at IPL are digger derricks, light-duty cranes, cable pullers and rodders. Truck types include step and hi-cube vans, 3/4-ton vans, and 1/4-, 1/2-, 3/4- and 1-ton pickups. The fleet also has sedans, minivans and SUVs, and the maintenance staff services and repairs support equipment such as easement rigs, backyard buckets, tensioners, wire reel trailers, forklifts, backhoes and small excavators.

“We have established replacement cycles based on vehicle size and use,” Garner said. “Light-duty models are in service for five years or 60,000 miles, trouble trucks are replaced after seven years and line trucks see 10 years of service in our fleet.

“For remarketing our retired heavy-duty trucks, and some nonroad equipment, we have been using the services of J.J. Kane Auctioneers,” Garner related. “We were working with a local auction company, but Altec brought J.J. Kane to our attention because of their specialization in selling construction utility equipment.

“They know the markets where we can get the best resale value for our trucks,” Garner added. “Overall, it’s been a very smooth and effective process. We have maximized our recovery dollars using the J.J. Kane process.”

Software is also in place to help specify and manage the IPL fleet, Gose noted. For example, there’s Diamond Logic Builder at International Trucks’ Body Builder Resource Center, as well as the CFAW fleet maintenance management solution and E.J. Ward automated fuel management software and reporting tools.

In the shop, Gose reported, technicians are trained on a regular basis and have multiple diagnostic tools at their disposal. Included are the Rotunda (IDS) service tool for Ford vehicles, Mentor, Pegasus, INSITE (Cummins) and Tech II diagnostic equipment, and the ServiceMaxx diagnostic and programming tool for Navistar MaxxForce engines.

Accelerated Implementation
“In 2010, we started using the Telogis Fleet management solution for vehicle telematics,” Dunkel said. “Initially, we phased in 50 trucks, but once we experienced the wealth of the data available, we accelerated our implementation plan.

“By the end of the first year we had over 300 vehicles on the system,” Dunkel continued. “The telematics solution reports GPS location data, engine performance, idle, PTO and battery time, and odometer readings, along with hard braking and acceleration information.

“Now that we have over two full years of baseline data from vehicle electronics systems over the Telogis solution, we’re taking it to the next level,” Dunkel added. “We have completed the next step [Enterprise Level] using the system’s InSight Alerts function to develop driver scorecards and a [key performance indicators] Dashboard.

“With these capabilities,” Dunkel stated, “our field operation teams use the system to enhance productivity by determining arrival and departure times at job sites. In the fleet department, we will be able to model scenarios that will show us the impact on costs of reducing idle time and get alerts to mechanical conditions previewing potential costly breakdowns and repairs.”

IPL’s management team, Dunkel added, has given strong support for this investment in vehicle telematics. “This technology has provided new and valuable insights into how our trucks are used,” he said, “giving us opportunities to lower operating costs, improve driving behaviors and better manage our assets.”

About IPL: Indianapolis Power & Light Co. provides retail electric service to more than 470,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Indianapolis, as well as portions of other central Indiana communities surrounding Marion County. During its long history, IPL has supplied its customers with some of the lowest-cost, most reliable power in the country. Its parent company, AES Corp., provides affordable, sustainable energy to 25 countries through a diverse portfolio of distribution and generation businesses.

About the Author: Seth Skydel has more than 27 years of truck- and automotive-related publication experience. In his career, he has held editorial roles at numerous national business-to-business publications focusing on fleet and transportation management, vehicle and information technology, and industry trends and issues.

Sharing Ideas

Written by Seth Skydel on July 25, 2013. Posted in Editor's Perspective.

Industry events are all about sharing information and ideas and this year’s Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference (www.eufmc.com) was no exception. Held in June, the annual conference celebrated its 60th anniversary with a mix of networking opportunities and a host of technical sessions that focused on the latest utility fleet management techniques and technologies.

The keynote address at EUFMC this year was delivered by Greg Pruett, senior vice president of corporate affairs for PG&E Corp. and Pacific Gas and Electric Co. In his remarks, Pruett focused in large part on electric vehicles, a subject we continue to follow at UFP as well.

PG&E, which has a long history of incorporating efficient and sustainable transportation technologies, today has more than 3,400 alternative fuel models in its fleet. Included are electric, natural gas and hybrid vehicles. The company is also working with aerial device suppliers to develop and test plug-in battery-powered systems and is deploying extended-range electric trucks, plug-in hybrid material handlers and all-electric service body units. To support these new vehicles, PG&E has installed more than 80 electric vehicle charging stations.

“We have also worked to develop customized lease terms that take into account the life cycle of electric vehicles,” Pruett noted. “We believe that other utilities can take advantage of these opportunities as well. Collectively, when it comes to the electrification of transportation, the utility industry has an incredible opportunity to be a game changer across the U.S.”

Among the topics on the 2013 EUFMC agenda were electric PTOs, a regulatory update, safety, fuel, boom inspections and technology in fleet garages. In addition, roundtable sessions for fleet managers and suppliers covered common challenges and the sharing of best practices.

One presentation at EUFMC that attracted a lot of attention was a report regarding a recently concluded survey on key process indicators (KPI). Mike Allison, director at Duke Energy, provided an overview of results; full details will be available in the future.

The KPI Survey, conducted in April by Utilimarc, is the second annual survey commissioned by EUFMC. In 2012, the conference presented results of its PM Practices & Technician Training Survey. For 2013, the focus was on the measures fleets are using to gauge the effectiveness of their management strategies.

Included were metrics in place to monitor vehicle availability, such as downtime and mean time between repairs, budget compliance, costs, fuel consumption, mechanic time, preventive maintenance, safety and a number of other areas. In each case, survey respondents ranked individual KPIs in different categories and reported on how the metrics help make more effective business decisions.

A new idea introduced at EUFMC that also promotes the sharing of information was the recently unveiled MechanicsQA. Offered by FleetAnswers, the forum allows technicians to “reach out to other fleet mechanics at a job specific level to ask questions and provide answers” in a collaborative setting. The forum, which has been undergoing testing at fleets, will eventually include a searchable database and other capabilities. Access to the free forum is available at www.mechanicsqa.com.

“Fleet is the backbone of our industry,” Pruett told the more than 100 fleet professionals at EUFMC. “We cannot serve our customers without it and in many cases our fleet is the main contact our customers have with us. It’s essential that we field vehicles that are as safe, clean and reliable as the electricity we provide. Your role as leaders is not static. It is rapidly changing and increasingly important.”

For the 2013 EUFMC audience, that message was not a surprise. Founded in 1953, the association has been educating fleet professionals for six decades, proving that there is no better venue for sharing ideas and best practices.

Seth Skydel
Editor

The Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference

Written by Seth Skydel on June 5, 2013. Posted in Utility Industry News.

It all began in 1953. The desire of utility fleet managers for a convention of their own, one that would address the specific needs of their operations, became the mission and vision of Joseph B. Baker, the founder of Baker Equipment Engineering Co., and Jean Y. Ray, the fleet manager at Virginia Electric Power Co. (now part of Dominion Power), who hosted the first Public Utility Fleet Managers Conference at the Tides Inn in Irvington, Va. While the conference did not officially change its name to the Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference until 1964, EUFMC was born. ~ EUFMC History 1953-2013

In 1961, 28 fleet managers and about 25 suppliers attended the Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference. Today, the nonprofit association hosts 100 fleet managers from about 60 investor-owned electric utilities, electric cooperatives and electric contractors from the U.S., Canada and South America, and more than 250 representatives of about 95 manufacturers and service providers.

In its early years, EUFMC was truly a public utility conference. Its membership included fleet managers from electric, telephone and gas utilities, among others. By the early 1960s, its founders had redefined the focus of the conference, centering more on electric utility issues. Since 1951, when the first meetings took place to plan the inaugural EUFMC in 1953, 32 fleet managers from operations across the U.S. have served as president of the conference.

“EUFMC has always been organized by a small group of utility fleet representatives for the benefit and education of the utility fleet professionals that attend the event each year,” said Gerald Owens, fleet manager at Oncor Electric Delivery and this year’s EUFMC president. “The board of directors consists mainly of utility fleet professionals, all volunteers who devote time to the conference with the support of their companies.”

Sixty Years of Service
Decade by decade, EUFMC has served the changing needs of utility fleets and addressed the continuing advent of new technologies.

“Some things never change and that’s a good thing about EUFMC,” said Ven Burwell, retired fleet manager from Duke Power who served as EUFMC president from 1991-1992. “At the conference, fleet managers were concerned about how to save maintenance costs, and we were very interested in new technologies such as electric, natural gas and light-duty diesel trucks. EUFMC has always been a great conference where we could learn about fleet ideas and make more effective decisions.”

Conference programs listing topics of discussions across the years tell the story. In the early 1960s, EUFMC attendees were discussing derrick and digger combinations and aerial devices as well as all types of trucks and bodies. Over the years, topics have included legislative and regulatory issues and a range of fleet management subjects such as vehicle utilization and acquisition, benchmarking, fleet management software, life cycle cost models and best practices in preventive maintenance. In recent years, the conference program has covered the latest vehicle, equipment and shop technologies as well as alternative fuels and managing environmental compliance.

Bringing People Together
EUFMC promotes cooperation between fleet professionals and suppliers who come to the annual conference prepared to discuss technical issues and operational needs, address challenges, share best practices and find solutions. Activities include a drive-through utility equipment demonstration and an exhibition of the latest equipment and services for utility fleets, the site today of more than 60 displays.

“While some of the original manufacturers at EUFMC are no longer in business, there has always been an effort by suppliers to bring engineers to the show, people who can talk to fleets, listen to their suggestions and solve problems,” said Dick Rosenmeier, retired fleet manager at Public Service Electric and Gas Co., who was EUFMC president from 1982-1985. “That’s one reason it was always desirable to be invited. It’s an original concept that still stands because it’s a good one.”

“I have been attending EUFMC for 58 years,” related Lenny Fernandez, recently retired utility sales manager at Reading Truck Body. “The conference has always been about attaining knowledge from fellow attendees that you could not get anywhere else. Vendors and utility representatives come here with knowledge of products and what works in their operations.”

For many attendees, EUFMC has continued to be successful because it has not lost sight of its original mission – to bring together decision-makers from both sides of the partnership between fleets and manufacturers.

“It’s hard to imagine that any group can stick to its founding principles after so long,” said Skip Baker, president of Baker Equipment and grandson of conference founder Joseph B. Baker. “Yes, it has grown significantly, and the topics of conference discussions have changed with evolving technology and work practices, but the group’s fundamental reason for assembling year after year hasn’t. Fleet managers come to Williamsburg to learn and share.”

Making Effective Choices

Written by Seth Skydel on June 5, 2013. Posted in Fleet Profiles.

With about 14,000 units ranging from passenger cars to Class 8 trucks, the Pacific Gas and Electric Co. fleet is sizable by any measure. Add to that a fleet maintenance operation that encompasses 63 facilities and 80 mobile service vehicles, and employs about 375 technicians and nearly 60 administrative personnel.

Another challenging aspect of the PG&E fleet is that its equipment covers more than 70,000 square miles of service territory including urban, suburban and rural areas. For Dave Meisel, senior director – transportation and aviation services, it all adds up to the need to make highly effective vehicle choices.

“When we’re looking at replacing vehicles, we have several considerations,” Meisel said. “We operate entirely within the state of California, which has the strictest clean air regulations in the country. That means we need to take into account the number of vehicles we have to replace to meet alternative fuel and regulatory requirements.

“We also need to look at vehicle additions that are needed for our business model,” Meisel added, “along with questioning if owning a unit might be more advantageous than long-term rentals. Simultaneously, we have to consider units that are out of life cycle, or will be in the planning year.

“We determine a vehicle’s life cycle by benchmarking against other operations,” Meisel continued. “Once or twice a year, we exchange visits with other fleets, including utility and nonutility operations, to learn from each other. Every time we make those visits, we learn something that we can do better.”

Exchanging Knowledge
As a utility operating about 14,000 vehicles in a single state, Meisel noted, it’s hard to find other operations that can be compared to PG&E’s fleet. That challenge, he related, is addressed by sharing information with some of the few multistate utilities in the country that operate more than 10,000 units, and with other types of fleets such as package, food and beverage operations that are similar in size.

For an industry perspective, PG&E also turns to Utilimarc, a provider of benchmarking, fleet consulting and business intelligence services, to compare specific fleet metrics within its own organization and against an industry database of as many as 400,000 units.

“Utilimarc forces you to provide data in a consistent structure, which gives us a true comparison of where we stand and how we relate to other fleets,” Meisel said. “Their methodology lets us look at detailed reports on costs by mile, unit, type, region and fleet size. We can also poll individual and groups of fleets on specific issues. For a relatively low cost compared to the quality of information we receive, Utilimarc’s analytical data tells us where there are opportunities to improve.”

The PG&E fleet now includes primarily Ford and GM models through Class 5, and Navistar and Peterbilt Class 6 through 8 trucks. The acquisition decisions that are made about the fleet are also the product of an evaluation of financing alternatives.

“Capital is the desired method of purchasing long-term assets in a regulated and decoupled utility like PG&E,” Meisel said. “We buy our vehicles outright in most cases because there is a return on capital associated with that activity. The practice of decoupling also promotes the conservation of energy.

“When we replace vehicles outside of our normal replacement cycle, it’s most often when major components have failed or there’s a structural integrity issue,” Meisel continued. “All other costs are maintenance related, which we handle primarily in-house. We have an outsourcing strategy and it’s not to outsource – except for items that are hard to cost justify internally, such as glass and body work.”

Lessons Learned
PG&E’s approach to managing its fleet is also based on both Meisel’s experience and the lessons he learns by remaining involved in the industry. His career began in the late 1970s as a mechanic at his family’s tractor and trailer rebuilding facility. From there, Meisel went on to management roles at Roadway Express and the Frito-Lay fleet, and at Consumers Energy in Michigan before joining PG&E more than six years ago.

Meisel currently serves on the Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference board of directors and is a regular attendee at shows like the International Construction & Utility Equipment Exposition. “Many conferences and shows don’t offer a lot of value,” he said, “but these events bring together major players and decision-makers. In a few days at ICUEE we can see a lot of the newest technology that suppliers have to offer. At EUFMC we get very valuable feedback from other fleet managers and get the opportunity to build relationships with some of the most senior players in the supplier world. It doesn’t get any more efficient than that.”

About PG&E: Incorporated in 1905, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. is the San Francisco-based subsidiary of PG&E Corp. and one of the largest combination natural gas and electric utilities in the U.S. PG&E currently provides natural gas and electricity to approximately 15 million people in northern and central California through 141,215 circuit miles of electric distribution lines and 18,616 circuit miles of interconnected transmission lines as well as 42,141 miles of natural gas distribution pipelines and 6,438 miles of transportation pipelines. That utility operation relies heavily on a fleet of almost 14,000 vehicles and the capabilities of a maintenance team that numbers more than 425. In turn, the decisions made by the fleet management operation at PG&E are driving efficiency in all respects.

Green-Fleets-Green-Truck-Ride--Drive-Web

Green News

Written by Seth Skydel on June 4, 2013. Posted in Smart Fleets.

New product introductions played a significant role at The Work Truck Show 2013, produced by NTEA. This year, more than 120 products made their debut at the event, and many fell into the category of green fuel-saving technologies.

The Green Truck Summit, jointly produced by NTEA and CALSTART, was also held in conjunction with The Work Truck Show. The event included a Ride-and-Drive, and attendees were able to visit with exhibitors at the CALSTART Clean Technology and Fuels Pavilion on the show floor. In addition, there were numerous opportunities to learn more about products and programs during a general session on green fleets and in breakout sessions. Topics for the sessions were covered by industry experts and “early adopter” fleet managers who shared their insights, lessons learned and solutions for implementing green technologies.

On its first day, the Green Truck Summit attracted more than 675 attendees. Keynote presenter Lee J. Styslinger III, chairman and CEO of Altec Inc., discussed the future of the green truck industry. Styslinger also reported on Altec’s development of a next generation of hybrid-electric, all-electric and range-extended electric work trucks.

The second day of the Green Truck Summit kicked off with a keynote address by Ron Schoon, executive manager, partnership development at National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Schoon discussed NREL and Clean Cities programs and initiatives, focusing on ongoing outreach to identify the value of clean fuels and technologies in the commercial truck industry. He also shared details about an upcoming national database of duty and drive cycles that all fleets can access to evaluate technologies in real-world applications. Visit www.ntea.com.

Green Truck Association Names 2013 Board of Directors Officers
The Green Truck Association announced its new officers of the board of directors during The Work Truck Show. The affiliate division of NTEA works to improve the efficiency and productivity of work trucks through the development and deployment of strategies to reduce diesel and gasoline consumption and associated environmental impacts.

Elected to one-year terms were:
• Joe Dalum, president and chief executive officer of Odyne Systems LLC, GTA president.
• David Bryant, manager of vocational sales for Freightliner Trucks, GTA vice president.
• Bill Burns, fleet operations manager for the City of Columbus, Ohio, GTA treasurer.

Also now serving on the board for three-year terms are Shawn Brougham, director, marketing and product engineering for Altec Industries, and Rob Stevens, chief nameplate engineer, commercial truck programs for Ford Commercial Truck.

The goal of the GTA is to continue the progression of green work trucks by showcasing green trucks and technology developments, serving as the resource for legislative, regulatory and funding initiatives relevant to green truck development, supplying market data and technical resources relevant to green truck development, and sharing timely news on green truck products and initiatives. Visit www.greentruckassociation.com.

HYBRIDS

Tallahassee Adds Terex HyPower to its Fleet
Terex Utilities has supplied the City of Tallahassee, Fla., with eight new utility trucks equipped with its HyPower Hybrid technology. The sale included four Terex TL41P Hi-Ranger telescopic material-handling aerial devices and four Terex C4045 digger derricks.

According to Buddy Driggers, alternative fuels manager, City of Tallahassee, the city is using its new TL41P HyPower aerial devices as trouble trucks, tasking them to handle everyday utility jobs such as responding to small power outages and removing downed tree limbs from power lines. The Terex C4045 HyPower digger derricks are being used by the city’s line crews.

The new Terex models in the Tallahassee fleet are replacing older utility trucks. In the future and as other units come due for replacement, Driggers noted, the city will evaluate opportunities to add more Terex HyPower trucks to its fleet.

According to Terex, the HyPower Hybrid System significantly reduces fuel consumption, diesel engine exhaust emissions, operating costs and work site noise pollution. The plug-in electric hybrid technology uses stored energy from the system’s rechargeable batteries to power nonpropulsion functions of the vehicle. Operating the utility truck’s boom functions and accessories, the HyPower system can allow crews to work on job sites for hours without starting the engine.

The Terex HyPower Hybrid System can be retrofitted onto existing vehicles. Visit www.terexhypower.com.

Allison Transmission Unveils Fully Automatic Hybrid
Designed for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, the new Allison H 3000 hybrid-propulsion system is a fully automatic parallel hybrid solution based on the Allison 3000 Series transmission. The H 3000 captures wasted energy during vehicle braking and uses it to assist in propulsion and powering of auxiliary equipment. The design features a torque converter fully automatic transmission and a hybrid motor-generator, power electronics and lithium-ion cell battery packs.

Scalable to each application, the modular lithium-ion battery packs in the H 3000 enable an optimal amount of energy capacity to be tailored to a specific vehicle or duty cycle, Allison noted, allowing for greater flexibility and performance. Depending on vocation and duty cycle, according to the company, the system is designed to offer fuel savings of up to 25 percent.

Production of the H 3000 is expected to begin later this year. Visit www.allisontransmission.com.

Odyne Systems Showcases Walk-In Van Hybrid Power Application
The Odyne Systems plug-in hybrid system that the manufacturer says is capable of reducing diesel fuel consumption up to 50 percent, depending on duty cycles, was recently displayed in a new walk-in van application where it powers climate control and underground tools.

The Odyne plug-in hybrid system interfaces with Allison Transmission’s fully automatic transmissions and uses a Remy electric motor in parallel with the existing drivetrain to provide launch assist and regenerative braking. At the job site, the Odyne hybrid plug-in battery system, featuring Johnson Controls’ lithium-ion battery packs, powers typical applications with the engine off.

Odyne systems are modular and can be applied and retrofitted to a wide range of work truck chassis in various applications. The systems are sold through a distribution network including Altec, DUECO and Terex Utilities. Visit www.odyne.com.

XL Hybrids Expands Product Line
Ford E-Series vans can now be equipped with an XL Hybrids hybrid electric powertrain designed for Class 1 to 3 fleet vehicles. The XL Hybrids technology will initially be available for 2013 model year E-150 and E-250 cargo van and passenger wagon models. The company then plans to release systems for older model year vehicles. The hybrid electric powertrain will be available for retrofit on model year 2013 vans already in fleet service

XL Hybrids also recently announced an installation partnership and distribution agreement with Leggett & Platt Commercial Vehicle Products. Visit www.xlhybrids.com.

Echo Automotive Rolls Out Full-Size Chassis
A 2007 Ford E-250 van with almost 400,000 miles on it was used to demonstrate how the Echo Automotive EchoDrive bolt-on hybrid electric kit for fleet vehicles can be used on multiple model year vehicles within a fleet.

Designed to integrate with existing vehicle architecture, EchoDrive does not replace the existing drivetrain. The system includes a battery, electric motor, inverter and charger that provide additional energy. EchoDrive fits most vehicles with adapter plates and brackets and includes modular battery packs that allow fleets to customize the system. Visit www.echoautomotive.com.

Siemens Moves Hybrid System Production to Georgia
Siemens has brought production of its hybrid traction electric drive systems to its manufacturing plant in Alpharetta, Ga. The move, according to the company, was made to allow for a quicker response to the production and service needs of North American customers.

The company has begun production of inverters, inductors and voltage protection modules at the plant as well as the assembly of electric drive systems within roof rack configurations for transit buses. Visit www.usa.siemens.com/drivetechnologies.

CNG & LPG

Ford Expands CNG-/LPG-Ready Offerings
With sales of Ford vehicles capable of running on CNG or propane autogas reaching record levels, the manufacturer has expanded its line of CNG- and LPG-ready models. Ford will now offer the all-new Ford Transit range of full-size vans, wagons, cutaway and chassis cab models powered by a 3.7-liter V-6 with a CNG/LPG prep kit.

Transit joins the current compact Transit Connect van, wagon and taxi lineup; Ford Super Duty pickups; stripped chassis, E-Series vans, wagons and cutaways; and medium-duty F-450, F-550 and F-650 models being offered with engines prepped for CNG/LPG conversion. In addition, the next generation of the Transit Connect range will add a CNG-ready 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine when it goes on sale later this year.

Each Ford engine that is factory-prepped for gaseous conversion comes equipped with hardened valves and valve seats. Visit http://corporate.ford.com.

Westport Bi-Fuel System Available on Ford Chassis Cab Models
Westport Innovations has announced that its Westport WiNG Power System, a CNG bi-fuel system, is now offered on Ford F-450 and F-550 Super Duty Chassis Cab trucks.

The WiNG Power System is integrated on the 6.8-liter V-10 engine and offers a combined fuel range of approximately 650 miles (at 9 mpg) with maximum CNG capacity (42 gasoline gallon equivalent) and a standard 40-gallon gasoline tank. Once the CNG fuel is depleted, the Super Duty trucks with the Westport system run on conventional gasoline. Visit www.westport.com.

3M and Chesapeake Energy Announce CNG Tank Collaboration
3M has successfully completed the NGV2-2007 certification process for its first CNG tank. The 21.5-x-60-inch tank is designed for light- and medium-duty pickup trucks and corporate fleet vehicles.

The successful certification follows the 2012 announcement by 3M and Chesapeake Energy Corp. that the two companies would collaborate in designing, manufacturing and marketing a broad portfolio of CNG tanks for use in all sectors of the U.S. transportation market.

Chesapeake is slated to become one of the first users of the new 21.5-x-60-inch tank, which it will incorporate in its fleet vehicles. The utility is currently converting its fleet of nearly 5,000 vehicles to run on natural gas. “The fuel tank has been the most expensive single component on a CNG vehicle, causing a bottleneck for the market,” said Nathan Pumphrey, Chesapeake director – fleet operations. “We look forward to incorporating these tanks into our fleet vehicles to save money on our conversions.”

Initially, 3M tanks will be available through five approved upfitters including OEM Systems of Okarche, Okla.; Venchurs Vehicle Systems of Adrian, Mich.; Alternative Fuel Solutions of Mahaffey, Pa.; AVS of Salt Lake City; and World CNG of Kent, Wash. Visit www.3m.com/cng.

Venchurs CNG Announces Collaboration With 3M
Venchurs, a Qualified Vehicle Modifier for Ford Motor Co. with ship-through facilities in Louisville, Ky., and Adrian, Mich., is now utilizing 3M’s newly certified CNG tank.

Companies interested in adding CNG Ford F-250s or F-350s to their fleets are also invited to apply for Venchurs’ short-term loaner program, where they can put the converted trucks to the test. Visit www.venchurscng.com.

ROUSH CleanTech and Green Alternative Systems Unveil New Ford F-550
A Ford F-550 chassis cab powered by propane autogas has been unveiled by ROUSH CleanTech and Green Alternative Systems. The customizable Ford F-550 – for use in passenger vehicles as well as construction, transit and utility applications – is equipped with a 6.8-liter V-10 engine.

Green Alternative Systems, a certified Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier installer, designs mounting hardware, handles packaging strategy and integrates ROUSH CleanTech propane autogas fuel system technology into the F-550 chassis cab. Visit www.greenalternativesystems.com and www.roushcleantech.com.

DISH Rolls Out Propane-Powered Fleet
Satellite TV company DISH has unveiled the first of 200 ROUSH CleanTech propane autogas-fueled Ford E-250 cargo vans that will enter its fleet in 2013. The company estimates the new propane autogas-powered vehicles will lower carbon dioxide emissions by 12.5 million pounds over the lifetime of the fleet’s operation compared to gas-powered counterparts.

DISH’s new alternative fuel vehicles will support residential and commercial customer service in Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Visit www.roushcleantech.com.

Icom Receives EPA Certifications, Announces Fleet Installation
Icom North America has received 15 new Environmental Protection Agency certifications for its patented JTG II Propane Liquid Injection bi-fuel and dedicated systems. The certifications cover approximately 100 different 2012-2013 General Motors and Ford light-duty trucks and SUV platforms with GM 4.8- and 5.3-liter engines and Ford 3.7-, 4.6- and 5.4-liter engines. Icom’s JTG II system is now available for approximately 600 vehicle platforms.

Icom has also announced an installation program for 140 propane autogas Ford F-150 pickup trucks for use by Menards home improvement stores. The vehicles will serve 36 Menards locations throughout Illinois and at Menards’ Eau Claire West store in Wisconsin. Visit www.icomnorthamerica.com.

HYDROGEN

Fuel Cell-Electric Hybrid Trucks Rolling in Houston
Funding from the Department of Energy and regional stakeholders – including the Houston-Galveston Area Council, Total Transportation Services Inc., Air Products, Vision Industries and the Environmental Defense Fund – is replacing 20 diesel-powered heavy-duty vehicles with zero-emission Tyrano hydrogen fuel cell-electric trucks. The DOE granted HGAC $3.4 million in funding to launch a zero-emission engine technology demonstration project at the Port of Houston Authority where heavy-duty trucks are projected to account for almost half of all port emissions by 2015.

Expected emission reductions from the project include 39 tons of nitrogen oxides and 0.8 tons of particulate matter per year. The trucks are expected to be rolled out later this year and will be fueled with hydrogen locally sourced from natural gas feedstock. Visit www.edf.org.

A Better Idea

Written by Seth Skydel on June 4, 2013. Posted in Editor's Perspective.

When Ron Schoon, executive manager, partnership development at National Renewable Energy Laboratory addressed attendees at the recent Green Truck Summit, his focus was on Clean Cities programs and initiatives and the ongoing activity aimed at identifying the value of clean fuels and technologies for commercial trucks. For example, he shared details on a national database of duty and drive cycles that will highlight how these technologies can be beneficial in real-world applications.

While that information will prove helpful to fleet managers considering alternative fuels, there is a missing piece of the puzzle, namely financial incentives that will help utilities and other companies cost justify these choices. Currently, while consumers can receive federal tax credits for the purchase of alternative fuel passenger cars, there are no federal incentives for the purchase of clean fuel trucks, buses or nonroad vehicles.

Incentives play a particularly important role in the early market for clean commercial vehicles because they are still produced in low volume and are more costly, noted CALSTART during a press event at The Work Truck Show 2013. But a commercial vehicle, it was noted, consumes much more fuel per day than a passenger car, so using clean technologies can cut more fuel use and reduce emissions to a larger extent on a per vehicle basis.

CALSTART’s remarks were made during the announcement that it has developed a white paper highlighting the emerging opportunity to create a regionally and state-supported national network of voucher-based incentives to speed clean commercial vehicles sales, even in the face of federal budget reductions. “Clean Tech Vouchers: An Effective Tool for All Regions” highlights the effectiveness of point-of-purchase vouchers as the best tools to spur sales of clean commercial vehicles.

Vouchers are different than standard incentives, CALSTART pointed out, in that they provide funding at the time of purchase, directly lowering the cost to the purchaser, and are simpler to request and process than grant funds or tax credits. A voucher, a point-of-sale reduction in price, the group noted, is far more helpful than a tax credit, particularly when it comes to fleet purchasing decisions.

The CALSTART paper also reports on a case study from California, the first state to test purchase vouchers for clean vehicles. It also describes how New York state, Maryland, Chicago and other regions nationwide have structured or will soon structure their own voucher programs. In addition to using state funds, some regions are also using existing federal transportation program dollars to support clean vehicle deployment.

“There is a good model now in place that regions can use,” said John Boesel, CALSTART president and CEO. “Given the lack of federal action, it is imperative that we encourage as many regions as possible to build out this clean vehicle support network for energy security, job growth and cleaner air. This report demonstrates the importance of state and regional action to spur the use of cleaner vehicles. In the absence of federal incentives for commercial vehicles, state and regional programs can keep the U.S. moving forward on clean tech and alternative fuel deployments.”

CALSTART recommends that vouchers be open to all clean fuels and technologies including natural gas, propane, hybrid, electric and other solutions. It is encouraging fleets and the industry to work with regions interested in speeding clean vehicle use to develop their own programs, and is available to help provide information on how to structure a voucher program.

By providing a financial incentive to fleets, a voucher program can give the deployment of alternative fuel technologies a much-needed boost.

Seth Skydel
Editor

Real-World Solutions: Green Truck Summit 2013

Written by Seth Skydel on February 15, 2013. Posted in Smart Fleets.

Registration is now open for the work truck industry’s educational forum on clean vehicle technologies – the Green Truck Summit that kicks off The Work Truck Show 2013.

Offering fleet managers practical ideas and solutions for implementing new green practices, the Green Truck Summit 2013’s slate of presenters will cover clean technology and fuel trends, deployment strategies, viable alternative fuels and funding opportunities.

On the summit’s agenda are a range of technical experts and industry leaders, including representatives from truck and engine OEMs, government agencies and fleet operations. The Green Truck Summit features 24 breakout sessions, five general sessions and two keynote addresses.

The Green Truck Summit 2013 will begin with a speech by Lee J. Styslinger III, chairman and chief executive officer of Altec Inc. Altec is developing a next generation of hybrid-electric, all-electric and range-extended electric work trucks. In 2012, the equipment and service provider opened a new green-focused assembly plant.

Dr. Michael Pacheco, associate laboratory director for deployment and market transformation at the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory, will address the Green Truck Summit as well, sharing insights into clean energy deployment, including programs that affect commercial vehicles and fleet operations. The focus of NREL is on achieving widespread adoption of more efficient and renewable technology, including alternative fuels and advanced vehicles.

The general session lineup at the Green Truck Summit will include the following sessions:
• Trends in Clean Technologies and Fuels
• OEM Perspectives on the Future of Clean Technologies
• Modeling the Benefits of Deploying Green Technologies
• Optimizing Engines: New Ideas to Be Clean and Efficient
• Compounding the Green: Incremental Measures for Going Green and Sustainable

Breakout sessions scheduled for the summit will cover propane, hydrogen fuel cells, natural gas, hybrid-electric systems, bi-fuel CNG and LPG systems, turbine-electric trucks, truck updates and other fuel-saving advancements. The complete Green Truck Summit schedule is available at www.ntea.com/greentrucksummit/schedule.

Presented by International Truck, the Green Truck Summit is produced jointly by NTEA, the Association for the Work Truck Industry, and CALSTART, a nonprofit organization that works nationally to foster the rapid growth of the clean transportation technology industry. The event precedes The Work Truck Show, which also includes a Green Truck Ride-and-Drive, sponsored by Hino Trucks, where attendees can experience the latest in clean vehicle technology. On the show floor, the CALSTART Clean Technologies and Fuels Pavilion features green equipment that is commercially available today.

The Green Truck Summit runs March 5-6 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. Summit registration includes admission to The Work Truck Show. To register, visit www.ntea.com or call 800-441-6832.

HYBRIDS

Eaton Developing Predictive Battery Management Technology
A power control system to reduce the size of hybrid system batteries is under development by Eaton Corp. The goal of the $2.5 million project, funded jointly by Eaton and a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy, is to reduce the size of the battery by 50 percent and improve the performance of the system and its charge rate while maintaining fuel economy and overall vehicle performance.

The development project will be led by Eaton’s Innovation Center team in Southfield, Mich., which will work with a team from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Eaton’s engineers and scientists will leverage the company’s expertise in intelligent power management systems and hybrid technology with NREL’s expertise in battery modeling and prognostics.

“This project is a continuation of Eaton’s keen focus on hybrid technology development and our confidence in the value of hybrids for the future,” said Tom Stover, chief technology officer for Eaton’s Vehicle Group. “Eaton is continuing to invest in developing the infrastructure that supports the future of the transportation industry, and this project is an example of how we are working to find safe, efficient and sustainable ways to improve hybrid vehicle performance.” Visit www.roadranger.com.

GE and Ford Collaboration
GE has announced it will purchase 2,000 new Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrids for its fleet. The purchase of Ford C-MAX Energi vehicles is another step in GE’s commitment to convert half of its global fleet to alternative fuel vehicles. The addition of the 2,000 plug-in hybrids brings the number of alternative fuel vehicles in GE’s fleet to more than 5,000. To date, GE employees have driven approximately 18 million miles in alternative fuel vehicles, saving about $2 million in fuel costs and reducing emissions by approximately 12 million pounds.

The Ford C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid provides a 21-mile electric-only range and a 620-mile single-tank driving range for a city EPA rating of 108 mpg.

As part of the collaboration, Ford will jointly market GE’s WattStation charging station and CNG In A Box natural gas fueling station to its commercial vehicle customers. The OEM will also supply new alternative fuel vehicles for use at GE’s Vehicle Innovation Center.

The two companies will also work with the Georgia Institute of Technology on data collection and analysis to study employee driving and charging habits, with the goal of improving all-electric driving and charging performance. Study findings will be shared with commercial customers to provide insights and help facilitate alternative fuel vehicle deployment across the country. Visit www.ford.com.

Hybrid Bus Team Recognized for ‘Visionary Leadership’
Eaton Corp. was part of the Kentucky Clean Fuels Coalition team, along with the Kentucky Department of Education, that received the first-ever Visionary Leadership Award from the Southeast Diesel Collaborative. SEDC is part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Clean Diesel Campaign to reduce pollution emitted from diesel engines.

The KCFC team provides hybrid-electric school buses to the state of Kentucky under a $12 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. Eaton assembles the hybrid system, including the clutch, electric motor, battery and six-speed automated transmission. As part of Kentucky’s hybrid bus program, Eaton offers training for drivers, mechanics and first responders. It also provides a technical overview for local communities.

With 162 buses fitted with Eaton hybrid systems, Kentucky has the largest hybrid school bus fleet in the U.S. On average, the hybrid buses are 34 percent more fuel efficient than traditional diesel-powered models. In some cases fuel consumption has been cut in half, depending on driving cycles and styles. The buses, which are used in a wide range of school districts across Kentucky, are typically driven 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year and have a 14-year life. Visit www.roadranger.com.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Chicago Awards Electric Garbage Truck Contract
Chicago is set to become the first U.S. city to deploy all-electric, zero-emissions garbage trucks. The five-year contract issued by the city to Motiv Power Systems will put in service 20 Class 8 EV refuse trucks with a GVWR of 52,000 pounds and a range of 60 miles.

The city of Chicago, which operates 600 garbage trucks, chose to request bids for electric refuse trucks after evaluating hybrid and compressed natural gas options. The city found that its garbage routes did not enable those technologies to be financially viable compared to the all-electric option.

Additionally, it has been validating the Motiv electric Powertrain Control System (ePCS) since March 2012 in an all-electric bus. The pilot program, funded by a grant to Motiv from the California Energy Commission, placed the 20-passenger bus, which can cover more than 120 miles on a single charge, in service.

Motiv’s ePCS uses off-the-shelf batteries and motors, which can be mixed and matched to fit the exact size of medium- to heavy-duty electric vehicles from 15,000 to 52,000 pounds. The Chicago refuse trucks, slated to be the heaviest electric vehicles in the U.S., will have the same ePCS system as the pilot bus, but include a larger motor and 10 battery packs. Motiv will work with Detroit Chassis to install the ePCS on a standard refuse chassis and Loadmaster will provide the truck bodies. Visit www.motivps.com.

GM Sets Sights on Electrification
By 2017, General Motors plans to have up to 500,000 vehicles on the road with some form of electrification. Included is a focus on plug-in systems like those used in the Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle introduced in 2010. The same technology is planned for the Cadillac ELR and the Chevrolet Spark EV, which will go on sale next year in certain U.S. markets. Additionally, the OEM is on track to sell more than 50,000 vehicles this year with electrification, including Chevrolet and Buick models with its eAssist light electrification technology.

Since 2010, Chevrolet Volt operators, including a number of fleets, have collectively driven more than 100 million all-electric miles. The average Volt travels more than 65 percent of the time in pure electric mode, only using the gasoline-powered generator for longer trips. In total, according to the manufacturer, Volts in service have saved 5 million gallons of fuel, equivalent to $21 million in overall gasoline costs based on $4 per gallon. For the first 38 miles, a Volt can operate using only a full charge of electricity stored in its 16.5-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas-powered engine/generator extends the driving range another 344 miles on a full tank.

When it arrives in California next summer, the 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV will have undergone more than 200,000 hours of battery testing. The Spark EV is driven by a coaxial drive unit powered by an oil-cooled, permanent magnet motor that produces at least 100 kW (130 HP) and torque of about 400 pounds per feet. More than 75 percent of the propulsion system components are from the Volt and GM’s hybrid truck programs. The vehicle’s more than 20-kWh lithium-ion battery pack is capable of handling multiple DC Fast Charges of up to 80 percent of battery capacity in approximately 20 minutes. Charging can also be completed in fewer than seven hours using a dedicated 240-volt charge. Visit www.gm.com and www.chevrolet.com.

Protean’s In-Wheel Solution
In multiple demonstration vehicles, including a Ford F-150 pickup truck, the Protean Drive fully integrated, in-wheel motor, direct-drive solution from Protean Electric is showing fuel economy improvements up to 30 percent depending on battery size. Designed to fit within the space of a conventional 18-inch road wheel, the system’s 68-pound motors each produce 81 kW (110 HP) and 590 pounds per feet of torque and, through regenerative braking capabilities, allow up to 85 percent of available kinetic energy to be recovered. Visit www.proteanelectric.com.

Mobile Electric Power Produces Results
In Austin, Texas, Energy Xtreme’s cleantech mobile electric power idle reduction solution has been installed in 33 of the city’s public works trucks and more than 600 Austin Police Department vehicles. Additional units have been retrofitted on Austin Energy and water utility department trucks. The producer of mobile power idle reduction systems has also installed its solution in an Austin EMS ambulance.

The Energy Xtreme mobile power idle reduction system is a smart power management device that provides power, without engine engagement, to vehicles with demanding electrical needs. The system allows a vehicle’s auxiliary electrical systems to operate without having to idle the vehicle’s engine and automatically recharges while the vehicle is being driven. Visit www.energyxtreme.net.

PROPANE & NATURAL GAS

Propane-Powered Buses
CleanFUEL USA and Collins Bus Corp. have delivered 134 propane autogas school buses to First Student Inc., the largest provider of student transportation services in North America. The buses will be used by First Student to provide service to Seattle Public Schools and Portland (Oregon) Public Schools. The purchase of the buses was made possible through grants from the U.S. Department of Energy and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

The Collins propane-powered NEXBUS is built on a dual rear-wheel GM chassis and utilizes a GM 6.0-liter engine. It has an estimated range in excess of 300 miles and is available in capacities up to 32 passengers. The propane autogas fuel system was developed in partnership with CleanFUEL USA and has obtained certification from both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board. Propane autogas, the third most widely used transportation fuel after gasoline and diesel, averages 40 to 50 percent fewer emissions per gallon. Visit www.cleanfuelusa.com and www.collinsbuscorp.com.

SuperShuttle Deploys 75th Alternative Fuel Vehicle
An operator of propane autogas vehicles since 2009, SuperShuttle has placed its 75th propane-powered shuttle in service in Phoenix. The alternative-fueled van is equipped with a ROUSH CleanTech propane autogas engine fuel system.

During its life cycle, each SuperShuttle propane autogas shuttle will release 175,000 fewer pounds of carbon dioxide than it would if it were operating on gasoline, the company noted. SuperShuttle franchisees operating these alternatively fueled vehicles are saving an average of $200 per week, or $10,400 per year, based on historically lower propane autogas costs and reduced maintenance. Visit www.roushcleantech.com.

Linde Demonstrates Mobile LNG Fueling
Linde North America has conducted a successful trial of its new LNG mobile fueling unit and plans to expand its use of mobile fuelers to help fleets make the transition to LNG fuel. Linde operates cryogenic plants and makes several million deliveries of cryogenic gases annually. It offers the technologies, equipment, supplies and services for LNG fueling solutions, including producing and servicing mobile and permanent refueling stations. Visit www.lindelng.com.

Alliance AutoGas Adds to Its Clean Fueling and Conversion Network
Alliance AutoGas welcomes new Canadian partner Wilsons Fuel Company Ltd. to its expanding clean vehicle fueling and conversion network. Wilsons brings the Alliance program to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador for fleets running on propane autogas. The Alliance program guides fleets through every aspect of switching to propane, including vehicle conversions, fueling, on-site fuel station installation, data integration, training and technical support. The Alliance AutoGas partner network now spans 40 states, Washington D.C. and seven Canadian provinces. Visit www.allianceautogas.com.

GAS & CLEAN DIESEL

Clean Diesel Technology Delivering for the Future
Advancements in clean diesel technology over the past decade, in conjunction with new research and development in all types of diesel engines, will play a major role in helping meet the updated Clean Air Act particulate matter (soot) standards announced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

“For the last decade, diesel technology has undergone a fundamental transformation to near zero emissions, based on ultralow sulfur diesel fuel, advanced clean-burning engines and new emissions control technology,” said Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum. “These advancements have occurred across the board, from the smallest industrial engine to increasingly popular clean diesel cars, commercial trucks, and off-road machines and equipment. The results of these efforts are clear since today, according to EPA, diesel engines account for only a small portion of the national PM emissions inventory – less than 6 percent.

“These last 10 years truly are the decade of clean diesel and the results are visible today,” Schaeffer continued. “New highway diesel truck engines have near zero emissions of particulate matter and oxides of nitrogen – a remarkable 98 percent less than 1988 models. It is also noteworthy that truck and engine manufacturers are not only producing near zero-level emissions, but these vehicles are also consuming an average of 5 percent less fuel. Just how significant is this accomplishment? Consider that it now takes 60 of today’s clean diesel heavy-duty trucks to equal the particulate emissions of one 1988 truck – a 60-to-1 ratio.”

Similar reductions in emissions of particulates and oxides of nitrogen are well underway and will be completed by 2014 for the wide range of off-road engines found in everything from small construction to large off-road equipment.

“Beyond the new technology advancements in reducing particulate emissions, there are opportunities for modernizing and upgrading existing diesel engines and equipment,” Schaeffer noted. “We are continuing to work with national environmental and health organizations to increase funding for the highly successful voluntary and incentive-based Diesel Emissions Reduction Act, which is helping to modernize and upgrade older diesel engines in school and transit buses, commercial trucks and construction equipment.”

Visit www.dieselforum.org.

Mack and Volvo Receive Greenhouse Gas Certificates
The full lineup of model year 2014 trucks and tractors from Mack Trucks and Volvo Trucks is now certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in accordance with 2014 fuel efficiency and greenhouse gas regulations. Visit www.macktrucks.com and www.volvotrucks.us.com.

Navistar Announces Clean Engine Technology Plan
Navistar International Corp. said it will introduce its next generation clean engine solution – In-Cylinder Technology Plus (ICT+) – to meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emissions regulations for 2010 and position the company to meet greenhouse gas rules in advance of 2014 and 2017 requirements. The ICT+ technology combines Navistar’s advanced in-cylinder engine solution with urea-based aftertreatment. Visit www.navistar.com.

GMC and Chevrolet Bi-Fuel Pickup Production Begins
Now underway is production of the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra 2500 HD bi-fuel pickup trucks. Powered by Vortec 6.0-liter V-8 engines, the trucks run on gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG) and seamlessly switch between the two fuels. CNG and gasoline tanks have a combined range of 650 miles. The Type-3 single-tank CNG system in the Silverado HD and Sierra 2500 HD is designed to retain more bed space. The pickups are available in standard and long-box and two- or four-wheel drive in the extended cab models.

GM and Chevrolet bi-fuel pickups are ordered from the factory, sent to tier-one supplier IMPCO for installation of the CNG bi-fuel delivery and storage system, and then delivered to the dealer or to an upfitter. The vehicles meet all U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and California Air Resources Board emission certification requirements.

“At Chesapeake Energy Corp., we are converting our fleet of more than 5,000 vehicles to run on natural gas, and having options from GMC and Chevy is critical to help us reach our conversion goal,” said Nate Pumphrey, director of fleet operations. “Following our full conversion, we will save $11 million to $12 million annually on fuel costs. As a fleet manager, the stable price of natural gas is another major benefit that helps me budget more accurately, and the fuel’s reduced emissions align with Chesapeake’s commitment to environmental excellence.”

Visit www.gm.com and www.chevrolet.com.

OILS & LUBES

Phillips 66 Offers Natural Gas Engine Oils
To support customers using natural gas-powered vehicles, Phillips 66 Lubricants has introduced natural gas engine oils. The Phillips 66, Conoco and 76 Lubricants and Guardol NG and Kendall Super-D NG products are designed for use in trucks powered by compressed natural gas or liquefied natural gas as well as in other natural gas-powered mobile equipment.

The new oils from Phillips 66 are formulated to meet the enhanced wear protection requirements of diesel-conversion natural gas engines. Lubricants for natural gas engines must protect against a larger range of conditions than diesel engine lubricants. To meet these special requirements for converted diesel engines, the oils offer temperature and oxidation control, balanced ash content to prevent valve stem deposits and reduce valve seat recession, and better shear stability and exhaust aftertreatment protection. The oils are approved for Cummins CES 20074 and Detroit Diesel 93K216 specifications. Visit www.phillips66lubricants.com.

RSC Bio Solutions
A manufacturer of bio-based cleaning, degreasing and lubricating products, RSC Bio Solutions is making available a line of biodegradable and nonhazardous products for fleet applications. Included is the company’s line of EnviroLogic bio-based hydraulic fluids and gear oils and SafeCare cleaners and degreasers. Visit www.rscbio.com.

Pulling All the Levers

Written by Seth Skydel on February 15, 2013. Posted in Fleet Profiles.

George Survant, senior director, fleet at Time Warner Cable knows exactly the direction he wants to focus on for the future of the telecom provider’s vehicle operation. “We have to manage for the minimum cost per month over the life cycle of the vehicle,” he said. “If we use best practices to drive up reliability, we not only have lower costs, but we’re in a better position to meet customer expectations and improve our customers’ experience.”

Joining Time Warner Cable in mid-2012, Survant brings more than 30 years of utility fleet management expertise to an organization full of highly skilled and experienced fleet operations professionals. “We have an opportunity to make sure that our service fleet and its management programs are as leading edge as the entertainment, communications and information technology that Time Warner Cable provides,” he stated.

Aggressive growth at Time Warner Cable, which now serves more than 15 million residential and business customers in 29 states, has presented the company’s fleet managers with a number of challenges. Its 21,000 vehicles are spread out from coast to coast, and in Hawaii. Large groups of trucks were brought into the operation as a result of acquisitions. More than 70 dealerships were involved in spec’ing equipment and negotiating purchases, and with 95 percent of the fleet’s maintenance outsourced, hundreds of service providers were in the mix.

Significant Muscle
“About three years ago,” Survant related, “the management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company Accenture began working with Time Warner Cable to address organizational strategies. The company was understandably decentralized in different areas, including fleet. Operating like many small companies rather than one entity meant lost opportunities to flex the organization’s significant market muscle.”

Applying that lesson to managing its fleet, Time Warner Cable has embarked on a comprehensive set of initiatives to take advantage of economies of scale, to centralize the fleet operation, and to leverage existing and new best practices across the entire equipment and maintenance organization.

“One objective is to drive up reliability,” Survant said. “There is a hidden cost of having many different vehicles sourced in small groups. Also, trucks simply become less reliable with age so we needed a consistent replacement plan that can only come from a national supplier relationship.”

Taking Advantage
In July 2012, Survant noted, the median age of a standard service van or pickup truck in the Time Warner Cable fleet was 6.7 years. “Ideally,” he added, “the median age target for this type of vehicle is 3.75 to 4 years. Moving in that direction, we’ve lowered the median age of our fleet to under 6 years in just six months, and we’ve reduced acquisition costs by working with OEMs directly on a national level, and by taking advantage of utility fleet pricing programs.”

The current Time Warner Cable fleet consists of 11,000 vans, primarily Ford E-150 and E-250 models along with some GM units. Its 4,000 quarter- and half-ton pickup trucks are also mainly Fords and there are 2,600 Class 5 Ford F-350 and F-450 bucket trucks. The balance of the fleet consists of fewer than 100 Class 6-8 trucks and some passenger cars and vans.

To adopt better solutions, remarketing of vehicles being phased out of the Time Warner Cable fleet has also been addressed. Today, when groups of vehicles become available, the company invites auction houses to bid and investigates the resale value it can realize by selling the trucks to dealer auctions or wholesalers, taking into account the cost of prepping vehicles and providing required paperwork. Resale value is going to be a factor in new vehicle purchases going forward, Survant also noted.

Nationwide Program
Turning its attention to maintaining the fleet, Time Warner Cable’s fleet management team focused on creating a single, nationwide program. In the fall of 2012, the company began using the vehicle fleet management services company ARI at all locations, except for the four in-house service facilities with on-site vendors that it operates in the Midwest and in New York City.

“ARI has an advanced maintenance management solution that it uses to leverage maintenance relationships with vendors nationwide on our behalf, and a breakdown call center that makes sense for the size and scope of our fleet operation,” Survant said. “We dictate preventive maintenance practices based on OEM recommendations and our own needs and experience, and ARI’s extensive network of dealers, leasing companies and independent service providers does the work. They also manage our national account program with Goodyear to meet all of our tire needs.”

ARI is also handling equipment upfitting when Time Warner Cable places new vehicles in service. Included is the installation of aerial devices supplied by Altec, ETI and Versalift, and Masterack interior shelving and ladder racks from Leggett & Platt. “A considerable amount of detail goes into the layout and correct upfitting of these items in service vehicles,” Survant stated. “We have a high volume of demand for field service so it’s essential to have the right tools, equipment and inventory on our trucks at all times.”

Customer Expectations
“It is increasingly challenging to meet customer expectations for time and service requirements,” Survant continued. “Along with fielding reliable vehicles, we need to ensure the fleet is in the right place at all times. While Time Warner Cable’s dispatch and operations management and planning practices have been very successful, enhancements to the installed AVL and GPS systems will continue to help them address that need even more effectively.”

For Time Warner Cable, the second largest provider of video, high-speed data and phone services in the U.S., a field service fleet operation that consistently achieves customer satisfaction goals is critical to success.

For the fleet management team at Time Warner Cable, Survant is quick to point out, reliable vehicles are at the top of the list. “It’s common sense,” he said. “A 4 percent failure rate means the same percentage of our service guarantees are at risk. Using best practices to field the right equipment and maintain it correctly eliminates those issues.”

What’s in a Name? – Part II

Written by Seth Skydel on February 15, 2013. Posted in Editor's Perspective.

On this page in the last issue of Utility Fleet Professional, we asked what exactly constitutes telematics in the realm of fleet management. Our question was based on the widespread use of the term “telematics” to denote automated vehicle systems. We also promised to focus more closely on what fleet managers need to know.

It turns out we had some very valuable information at our fingertips. During the 2012 Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference (www.eufmc.com), two of the presentations in a session entitled “GPS/AVL – Looking for ROI” offered key insights.

Alan Riddle, director of transportation services, and David Guerrero, fleet asset manager at Southern California Edison, presented “SCE and Telematics” about the evaluation of this technology on vehicles operated by the SCE Transportation Services Department. The SCE Fleet Performance Management System, they noted, provided management with real-time data on fleet vehicles, which can be utilized for more effective decision-making in three key areas:
• Fleet utilization including managing fleet size, vehicle reassignment, reducing the number of rentals, creating vehicle pools for short-term use, making informed vehicle replacement decisions, assigning the right vehicles for the right job and tracking unauthorized vehicle use.
• Fleet maintenance including improved preventive and corrective maintenance, increased safety during vehicle operation, and identification of poor performing vehicles and vehicle tampering or misuse.
• Fleet efficiency including reduced fuel consumption, decreased nonproductive idle time, improved driver performance, increased fuel economy, decreased emissions, fuel cost tracking, optimal routing, maximized fuel tax credits and increased compliance.

Findings from SCE pilot testing indicated that if this system lowered indirect idling to under 10 percent, speeding to under 5 percent and underutilization to less than 10 percent, and mpg increased, SCE would realize a return on investment from telematics within three years. Additional benefits include improved public and employee safety, better job planning and routing, vehicle life extension, faster response times to an incident and enhanced storm resource management. Also included is resolution of customer complaints regarding driver behavior, less theft and fraud, fuel tax savings and improved environmental stewardship through fleet efficiencies.

Tim Taylor, customer success officer at Telogis Inc., was also on the panel. He began by detailing four levels of telematics systems:

Level 1: Traditional AVL/GPS indicates where the vehicle is located; if it is driving, idled or stopped; how fast it is moving; and if it is in the right place compared to the location of the work.

Level 2: Vehicle intelligence includes getting data about the vehicle and its key components; how the vehicle is performing; if it is being utilized effectively; and if maintenance performed is based on real hours and miles.

Level 3: Connected intelligence uses customizable scorecards, dashboards and benchmarking to monitor and manage safety; utilization for emergency response coordination; and for coaching driver behavior about idling, speeding and hard acceleration/braking.

Level 4: Integration, interoperability from the connection between mobile intelligence and other enterprise applications, creating improved visibility, unique metrics, interoperability/integration with vehicle telematics, maintenance applications, and ERP and HR, inventory, cost, work order and fuel management systems.

In Level 1, Taylor noted, ROI for telematics comes from fuel cost savings, reducing miles driven and maintenance costs, and improving fleet utilization by identifying underutilized vehicles, as well as reducing capital investment and operating costs and the number of safety incidents.

“Telematics initiatives are about the creation of intelligence via the connection of mobile assets to the needs of the enterprise; providing operational levers for measurable improvement in operations, costs and efficiencies; driver performance and safety; emergency response and visibility; asset utilization; and customer service and satisfaction,” Taylor concluded.

To answer our own question, we couldn’t have summed it up better.

Seth Skydel
Editor

Author: Seth Skydel

Green News

Valuable Insight

Sharing Ideas

The Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference

Making Effective Choices

Green News

A Better Idea

Real-World Solutions: Green Truck Summit 2013

Pulling All the Levers

What’s in a Name? – Part II

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