Event promotes alternative fuel vehicles

The fifth biennial National Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Day Odyssey was held on October 15 and focused on achieving energy independence and a move toward environmental sustainability. The event was created in 2002 by the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC), a program of West Virginia University, to increase public education and awareness of cleaner domestic alternative fuel options and advanced technology vehicles. It brings together organizations, vehicle manufacturers, and businesses to showcase new developments in alternative transportation technologies and their benefits.

The event is supported in part by funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, which awarded grants to the NAFTC and its partners for the Advanced Electric Drive Vehicle Education Program, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and the Clean Cities Learning Program. National sponsors Toyota, Honda, Eaton, and Think also contributed to the 2010 National AFV Day Odyssey. The kickoff event for the 2010 National AFV Day Odyssey was held October 14 in New York City’s Union Square, hosted by New York City Lower Hudson Valley Clean Communities and the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, with support from the New York City Department of Transportation.

New York City Parks Department operates nearly 400 hybrid vehicles throughout the city. The Parks Department tests the fuel economy of all its vehicles, boasting a 50% to 100% improvement in fuel economy with hybrid technology. They also have more than 100 natural gas vehicles, 275 electric vehicles, and 850 heavy- and light-duty trucks fueled by biodiesel.

The city saved and reduced over 350,000 gallons of fuel in the last year. These products are actually leading to 10% less fuel use and millions of dollars in savings.

More than 20 alternative fuel vehicles were on display for the public to view in Union Square, and representatives were on hand to answer questions and give information about the various technologies.

Eaton Corporation displayed an electric vehicle charger selected from their family of electric chargers designed for consumer, public and fleet use. Toyota displayed one of its plug-in hybrid Prius prototypes to be released in 2012. THINK North America displayed an electric car that has been successful in Europe and is now being introduced to the U.S. market. Some of the fleets that were highlighted at the event included New York City’s Department of Sanitation, which featured its hydraulic hybrid refuse truck, an innovative combination of alternative fuels utilizing hybrid hydraulic technology and a biodiesel fueled engine. In addition, Verizon showcased one of its CNG vans, and Coca-Cola highlighted some of its major delivery trucks. For more information about the NAFTC and its programs, visit www.naftc.wvu.edu.