SALT LAKE CITY – The State of Utah is planning to purchase 73 hybrid vehicles in 2012, along with four CNG-fueled vehicles. The additional hybrids will bring those in the State’s fleet to a total of 500. The new CNG vehicles will bring the total in the fleet to 85, according to the State. This effort is part of the Utah Clean Air Partnership, or U-CAIR.

"Hybrid vehicles are more fuel efficient than other standard unleaded vehicle choices as their miles-per-gallon rating is higher than comparable vehicles in the same class," said Sam Lee, the State's director of the Division of Fleet Operations. "Currently mid-sized sedan hybrid vehicles in state fleet have 83% greater efficiency over comparable vehicles."

The State of Utah also plans to purchase and test two electric vehicles this year, once they are available for fleet purchasing. The State installed six electrical charging stations at the Multi Agency State Office Building at 195 North 1950 West. The State also operates seven CNG stations from Logan to Lindon that are open to the public.

Beyond the vehicle purchases, the State is also focusing on encouraging employees to drive more efficiently and maintain equipment and vehicles appropriately.