Springfield buys hybrid cars for Parks Department

By Peter Goonan

08/07/2008- The Republican

SPRINGFIELD - The city has purchased four hybrid cars for use by the Parks Department, and will consider expanding the fleet following a study of costs and savings.

The purchase of the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrids is being done on a trial basis, with details set to be announced Wednesday morning at Forest Park. The city anticipates delivery in the coming months, set to replace older department vehicles.

The cars were purchased for $28,300 each from Stoneham Motor Corp. of Massachusetts, should arrive by the end of the year.

According to Ford, the hybrids meet "Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle and Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle standards," a city press release stated. The cars get 34 miles per gallon in city driving. While stopped or driving at low speeds powered by electric motors, the cars burn no gasoline, according to Ford.