Fleet mangers see green at expo

TORONTO – The cities of Toronto, Hamilton and the group Fleet Challenge Ontario hosted the inaugural Green Fleet Expo at Exhibition Place.

Organized to give fleet managers an opportunity to learn about new and emerging “green” technology for possible incorporation into their management of vehicles and other motor- driven equipment.

“Events like this are important to share experiences and knowledge among peers,” said Gerry Pietschmann, Director of Fleet Services, City of Toronto. “Green fleet technology has many misconceptions, so it’s great to hear from the users about their experiences and what they think about different types of technologies.”

The Cities of Toronto and Hamilton and are in the process of implementing green fleet plans, including replacing fossil fuel burning vehicles with environmentally-friendly alternatives like hybrids and introducing fuels like biodiesel and ethanol-enriched gasoline.

On display at the Green Fleet Expo were various green fleet technologies being applied to vehicles and equipment across the province. Fleet managers and other officials had the opportunity to test drive green vehicles and learn about the technology.

“The idea behind this event was to show our fellow fleet managers what we have achieved, and sell them on green technology,” said Chris Hill, Manager Central Fleet, City of Hamilton. “We would like more organizations in Ontario, if not Canada, to adopt a green fleet approach.”