PHOENIX (AP) — Arizona's largest electric utility is converting its vehicle fleet to electric plug-in models.
Phoenix-based Arizona Public Service Co. says it'll switch cars, trucks, forklifts and bucket trucks to plug-in models as current vehicles go out of service and are replaced. APS says the conversion will take years but reduce emissions and fuel costs while providing the company with more efficient, longer-lasting and quieter vehicles.
According to APS, one specific advantage to plug-in hybrid electric bucket trucks is that they don't require engine idling to operate the lift. Instead, those trucks' use of an on-demand electric motor reduces engine hours.
APS spokeswoman Jenna Shaver says many of the company's more than 2,100 vehicles are pickups and that replacement of those trucks will wait until electric plug-in versions are commercially available.