A Driving Force to Improve Air Quality On June 27th, City of Pickering Mayor and Members of Council turned the key and launched the City's first hybrid-electric vehicle. The release was timely, coming shortly after Clean Air Day, at which the City was one of many partners who on June 8th rewarded residents who choose to commute using public transit. Working towards improving air quality and the environment is not something the City simply tackles at certain times of the year, it is a focal point that is considered in how they do business everyday. In 2004 the City of Pickering adopted an Anti-Idling Bylaw and over the past year had been investigating alternative fuel options. "Traditional fossil fuel vehicles release greenhouse gases and produce toxic air emissions; these emissions degrade our environment and contribute to smog and acid rain," said Chantal Whitaker, Coordinator, Environmental Awareness Programs. "Besides the effects on the environment, these emissions contribute to human health problems like asthma, cancer and other respiratory illnesses," added Ms. Whitaker. The transportation sector is the single largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Canada and emissions from vehicles are growing faster than any other sector. "The hybrid-electric vehicle is a positive step toward addressing this problem," said Grant Smith, (Acting) Superintendent, Municipal Operations and Fleet Manager. While at low speeds, such as in stop & go traffic, the electric motor powers the vehicle; at higher speeds the vehicle automatically transitions into using a gasoline engine. "Using only 7.1 L / 100 km in the City and 7.5L / 100 km on the highway the vehicle is very efficient while still meeting the needs of City staff," explained Mr. Smith. Compared to its non hybrid version this vehicle will produce 28% less emissions and reduce fuel consumption by 50 percent. "The City of Pickering is committed to helping protect our environment through a number of effective strategies and initiatives," said Mayor David Ryan. "Council believes that investing in new and innovative technologies such as the hybrid vehicle is a wise investment towards our future."
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