Verizon's Fleet Welcomes Chevrolet Hybrid Pickups

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As part of the greening of its fleet, Verizon has purchased 576 Chevrolet Silverado Two-Mode Hybrid full-size pickups that deliver the city fuel economy of a four-cylinder sedan.

The pickups have  an EPA estimated 21 mpg city and 22 mpg highway and the vehicle's two-mode system enables the Silverado to launch and drive up to 30 mph on electricity alone.

"A major part of our sustainability strategy is to make smart use of lower-carbon alternatives to power our fleet and the operation of our high-IQ broadband networks," said James Gowen, Chief Sustainability Officer for Verizon. "By adding 1,600 alternative energy vehicles to our fleet this year we're conserving fuel, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving air quality in communities across the country."

Verizon launched a comprehensive sustainability program earlier this year, which expanded the number of alternative energy vehicles in their fleet. Additionally, in their commitment to doing business with diverse suppliers, the company placed the order for the 576 hybrid pickups with Fairway Motors, a woman-owned Chevrolet dealership in Hazelton, Pa.

"When Verizon first approached us about environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles for their urban drivers, we knew the Silverado Hybrid was the perfect fit because of its outstanding city and highway mpg ratings," said Brian Small, GM Fleet and Commercial Operation General Manager.  "Immediately the team went to work to meet Verizon's ambitious July delivery deadline."

The pickups, to be deployed in urban areas in various Verizon's markets, is powered by the standard Vortec 6.0L V8 engine delivering 332 horsepower and 367 lb.-ft of torque, it has a payload of 6,100 lbs. The vehicle also comes with an eight-year/100,000 mile limited warranty on hybrid components and a five-year/100,000 transferable powertrain limited warranty.

To further capitalize on the Silverado Hybrid's fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, Verizon collaborated with BrandFX Body Company and GM to develop the light-weight fiberglass insert to be installed in the truck's bed. The composite insert, the lightest weatherproof container on the market, will house Verizon's service equipment, such as ladders, wiring, connectors, and television set boxes.