MIAMI - Ryder System, Inc. announced the launch of its new “Flex-to-Green” lease offering, making it easier for private fleet operators to jump start their sustainability programs by providing the option of incorporating alternative-fuel vehicles into their fleets in support of their business objectives. Ryder’s alternative fuel fleet includes compressed and liquid natural gas vehicles, which are offered in select markets as well as hybrid vehicles, which are available in most U.S. markets. Ryder currently supports natural gas vehicles in southern California and Arizona. As Ryder’s capabilities and infrastructure to support natural gas vehicles are expanded, the Flex-to-Green lease option will be offered to customers in those new markets.

“Ryder is committed to making it as easy as possible for customers to implement sustainable transportation solutions,” said Robert Sanchez, President of Global Fleet Management Solutions for Ryder. “The new ‘Flex-to-Green’ offering makes sustainable efficiency simple by providing a flexible product that enables customers to incorporate alternative fuel vehicles into their fleet when they are ready.”

Ryder has the unique ability to influence and reach a broad, diverse customer base to improve access to alternative fuels and vehicle technologies on a national level. Recognizing the company’s leadership in natural gas, in April 2010, the San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) Board collaborated with Ryder as its fleet partner in a groundbreaking ceremony for its heavy-duty natural gas truck rental and leasing project. As part of the project, which aims to improve air quality in Southern California, 202 heavy-duty natural gas powered trucks are being deployed into Ryder’s Southern California operations network. Ryder customers can access these natural gas-powered vehicles through short-term rentals, long-term leases or Ryder’s dedicated logistics services. In addition, Ryder has constructed new natural gas refueling stations and will maintain vehicles at three maintenance shops in Fontana, Orange, and Rancho Dominguez. Each maintenance facility is being equipped for the indoor repair of natural gas vehicles.

According to Deborah Barmack, SANBAG executive director, “It’s important that companies like Ryder are developing product offerings to help customers make the transition to natural gas vehicles as easy as possible so they can tap into the predictability, cost-efficiency, and environmental benefits of alternative fuels.”

Ryder’s “Flex-to-Green” offering is available immediately. For additional information, visit www.ryder.com/flextogreen or call your local Ryder representative.