Utility Vehicles: Thinking Savings, Buying Versatility
Part 1: Utility Vehicles: Managers' Top Consideration is Cost
Part 2: Utility Vehicles: Green Still Plays Key Role in Specification Process
Part 3: Utility Vehicles: Hybrid Technology Makes a Splash
Part 4: PRODUCT RELEASES: Utility Vehicles
Utility Vehicles: Green Still Plays Key Role in Specification Process
By Dan Hounsell, Editor
Maintenance Solutions - February 2009
Despite the re-emergence of cost as the leading purchase consideration, manufacturers know their vehicles still must incorporate environmental responsibility and new technology. Federal mandates, coupled with the growing awareness of the way equipment affects the environment, are driving these changes.
“As green awareness and initiatives continue to gain traction, managers have started asking us questions such as, ‘How do I balance the performance characteristics of utility vehicles that I require to productively accomplish my job — such as power, hauling and towing capacity, comfort, and versatility — with environmental friendliness?’” Tollison says.
Manufacturers are redesigning vehicles to meet those demands, Cunningham says.
“This includes engine advancements reducing emissions, new motors that reduce both noise and fuel consumption, exploring alternative sources of power — like electric and hybrid technologies — and making vehicles that are good for the turf and better for the environment as a whole” he says.
