UPS to deploy three "green" trucks in Hong Kong

UPS will take on three hybrid-electric vehicles in Hong Kong this year, as part of its global effort to move to more sustainable technologies. The company wheeled out the first new hybrid-electric truck in the former British colony yesterday. Two more hybrids will be added to the Hong Kong fleet later this year.

UPS said hybrid electric vehicles have shown a 35% improvement in fuel economy since it started using them in 1998.

Its expanded use of hte technology fits in with its global effort to use more sustainable and environmentally-friendly business practices, the company said.

UPS currently has more than 1,900 vehicles in its fleet using alternative technologies. Its work with manufacturers, government agencies and non-profit organisations aims to help advance the technologies and help develop cost-effective transport options that are better for the environment than conventional diesel.

Brian Cusson, President of UPS North Asia District, said his company was tracking fuel and energy performance indicators each day to promote efficiency and sustainability.

He said: “The new hybrid-electric vehicles in Hong Kong, in addition to our employee volunteer activities and community involvement, demonstrates the strategic importance of sustainability.”

UPS Hong Kong won a government environmental award last year for its work to “green” its logistics services.

Among the company’s achievements has been the introduction of the first carbon neutral shipping option for its customers, where shipments have their carbon footprints offset for a nominal fee.

William Ng, managing director of UPS in Hong Kong and Macau, said introducing hybrid-electric vehicles would help to further his company’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and also local population.

He said: “Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated places in the world and air quality has always been a matter of concern for local residents.”