Utility Department Purchases Fuel Efficient Hybrid Electric Vehicle

The Park Ridge Utility Department recently purchased a new Toyota Prius, a highly fuel efficient hybrid vehicle. The Prius utilizes a new technology that combines an efficient gasoline engine with a clean, quiet electric motor. It automatically switches between the gasoline engine and electric motor, depending on driving needs. This results in the car having a fuel economy of up to 55 miles per gallon, along with producing up to 90% less emissions than the average car. The gasoline engine also recharges the onboard battery pack so it never needs to be plugged in. This vehicle was purchased to replace the Meter Reader’s outdated car.

The Board of Public Works felt that the Borough should do its share in promoting fuel efficiency and emissions reductions. When investigating the possibility of purchasing an electric vehicle, it was discovered that the Toyota Prius was available through a New Jersey State Bid Contract. Before recommending the purchase, we interviewed various other agencies (including the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey) who had already purchased this vehicle. Because all the references were very favorable, the Board authorized the purchase. In addition, the Borough was able to apply for and received a $4,000 rebate from the State through the “New Jersey Alternate Fuel Vehicles Rebate Program”. The picture above shows John Reynolds, the Borough's Meter reader, standing in front of the 2003 Toyota Prius.