Anaheim, CA: Isuzu NPR ECO-MAX trucks are now helping one of the nation's largest food purveyors achieve its goals of reduced fuel consumption and a smaller carbon footprint.
Deli Express/EA Sween Company of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, boasts several Isuzu NPR ECO-MAX trucks in its fleet with more Isuzu Trucks on the way, the results have exceeded the company's highest expectations.
According to Gregg Hodgdon, head of fleet operations Deli Express: "These vehicles are demonstrating nearly 50 percent better fuel economy then the rest of our fleet and are emitting about 700 pounds less carbon dioxide every month."
Over a 12-month period, the NPR ECO-MAX trucks will emit 4.2 tons less carbon dioxide.
"These results are proof that it is possible to improve a fleet's carbon footprint through weight reduction and efficient technologies while still utilizing a traditional fuel source," Hodgdon says.
An additional, benefit: Deli Express drivers prefer the new trucks to their predecessors. "Our drivers love the NPR ECO-MAX," says Hodgdon. "It's closer to the ground, so they don't have to stretch to get in and out. We love the design of the whole truck."
Hodgdon and Deli Express began their quest for a greener, more fuel efficient truck that would not sacrifice performance, durability or ergonomics over two years ago. With the assistance of the company's fleet management partner, Automotive Resources International (ARI), Hodgdon explored a variety of alternative technologies to determine which fuel type could work best for Deli Express.
"We realized that it was indeed possible to make a positive, sustainable change with traditional fuels," according to Hodgdon—"but it would require an innovative truck design that could significantly improve fuel economy without compromising the power, reliability and convenience that Deli Express drivers demand."
