As part of an initiative to “green” its fleet, Verizon purchased 576 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrids. The two-mode hybrid pickup blends an internal combustion engine with battery-powered electric motors to offer customers the advanced technology needed to reduce emissions and fuel consumption, according to GM.
“When Verizon first approached us about environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles for their urban drivers, we knew the Silverado Hybrid was the perfect fit because of its outstanding city and highway MPG ratings,” said Brian Small, GM fleet and commercial operation general manager. “Immediately, the team went to work to meet Verizon’s ambitious July delivery deadline.”
According to GM, the 2010 Silverado Hybrid is a full-size, fully capable, V8-powered truck that delivers up to a 40% improvement in city fuel economy. By applying GM’s two-mode hybrid technology, the Silverado Hybrid provides fuel efficiency with an EPA estimated 21 MPG city and 22 MPG highway, the company said.
GM’s two-mode hybrid technology system not only enables the Silverado to launch and drive up to 30 MPH on electricity alone, it allows the Vortec 6.0L V-8 engine to operate in its more economical V-4 mode for longer periods. This technology is the only hybrid system capable of being used in full-size trucks, according to GM.
“A major part of our sustainability strategy is to make smart use of lower-carbon alternatives to power our fleet and the operation of our high-IQ broadband networks,” said James Gowen, chief sustainability officer for Verizon. “By adding 1,600 alternative energy vehicles to our fleet this year, we’re conserving fuel, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality in communities across the country.”
Committed to finding practical and innovative ways to reduce the carbon footprint of its global operations, Verizon said it launched a comprehensive sustainability program earlier this year. The program expanded the number of alternative energy vehicles in its fleet.
The pickups, to be deployed in urban areas in various Verizon’s markets, are powered by the standard Vortec 6.0L V8 engine delivering 332 HP and 367 ft./lbs. of torque, it has a towing capacity of 6,100 lbs. (2WD) or 5,900 lbs. (4×4). The vehicle also comes with an 8-year/100,000-mile limited warranty on hybrid components and a 5-year/100,000-mile transferable powertrain limited warranty.
Verizon also collaborated with BrandFX Body Co. and GM to develop the lightweight fiberglass insert to be installed in the truck’s bed. The composite insert, the lightest weatherproof container on the market, will house Verizon’s service equipment, such as ladders, wiring, connectors and television set boxes.
