BT Considers Shifting Service Fleet to Electric Vehicles

BT Considers Shifting Service Fleet to Electric Vehicles

For years many companies have used company cars that don't fall in line with their otherwise eco-friendly business practices.  In recent years corporations have looked for more environmentally friendly alternatives to gas.  BT, a British telecommunications company, is starting small by testing out the use of a small amount of electric vehicles for the fleet with plans to add many more if the move proves successful.  This use of electric cars could pave the way for many other companies like BT to start using the same vehicles in their own fleet.  This could start a wave of companies that choose to be pro-active in the ways they address cost issues of gas, environmental friendliness and image of the company.

Many other institutes such as colleges have already begun to use biodiesel buses and electric or hybrid cars in their fleet.  One such university is my alma mater the University of South Florida.  USF in 2002 started the initiative to use biodiesel buses for their Bull Runner buses that transport students around campus.  The reasoning for using 100% biodiesel fuel was because it was a renewable resource, environmentally friendly and also reduces dependency on foreign oil.  There were also many research opportunities for this program that were extended to undergrad and grad students in the field of science.  At first, there were many problems with this somewhat new technology but eventually the bugs were fixed and the school became one of the first successful biodiesel programs of its kind in the country.  Not only did USF pave the way for other school throughout the country but also is hopefully setting a good example in the community for more responsible living.

The article found is a great example of how progressive our world is becoming in saving energy and taking advantage of environmentally friendly resources, but this article is also a great example of planning.  Switching to electric or biodiesel energy is no small task.  Many vehicles have to be switched from one energy source to another, the trial period for the initial plan has to be closely monitored and documented, the budget must be maintained and bugs have to be worked out of the plan.  Every one of these aspects of the plan also must be overseen by a group and managed by one person.  Group dynamic must be strong in order for this plan to work.  A company such as BT will undoubtedly have no problem executing their plans as they already have proven to be a leader in their field.  BT's electric car trial is a great example of not only effective planning but great leadership as well.

http://usfweb2.usf.edu/Sustainability/academics/pdfs/Biodiesel%20080310.pdf

http://www.greenbiz.com/news/2010/11/24/bt-considers-shifting-service-fleet-electric-vehicles