EDMONTON and CALGARY – Is this allowed in Alberta?
In a province whose hot economy is powered by its rich deposits of oil and natural gas, one of its biggest broadcasters says it is cutting its consumption of fossil fuels.
CHUM Television Alberta announced Wednesday the arrival of its new fleet of hybrid cruisers. Citytv stations in Calgary and Edmonton will replace their CityNews cruisers with a fleet of 14 2008 Ford Escape hybrid vehicles.
The gas/electric hybrid vehicles generate less pollution and consume fewer fossil fuels, says the company’s release. The electric motor can power the vehicle at speeds of up to 40 km per hour without using the gas engine; and, when the vehicle slows to a stop, the gas engine turns off.
“The hybrids will result in a nearly 50% reduction in fuel consumption and operating costs over that of our previous vehicles," said Al Thorgeirson, vice-president, CHUM Television, Alberta/Manitoba. "It was an easy decision for us; it’s both environmentally and fiscally responsible.”
Citytv Edmonton and Calgary will roll out five hybrid cruisers in each city with another two each in the Red Deer and Lethbridge Bureaus.
