MOUNT LAUREL, N.J. – Automotive Resources International (ARI) announced its affiliation with SmartWay Transport, a voluntary collaboration between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the freight industry, designed to increase energy efficiency while significantly reducing greenhouse gases and air pollution.

ARI is the first fleet management company to become a SmartWay Affiliate, and in that role, will work with its fleet customers to develop more environmental-friendly fleets, contributing to the SmartWay Transport goal of reducing 33 to 66 million metric tons of carbon dioxide and up to 200,000 tons of nitrogen oxide per year by 2012.

ARI's emissions reduction effort is comprised of case specific fleet greenhouse gas analyses and recommendations including; NOx & particulate matter for specialized truck fleets. ARI also captures, reports, and benchmarks on 'green' fleet initiatives including; proper vehicle selection, drive-train configurations, up-fit alternatives, and alternative fuel options in an effort to promote more fuel efficient fleets. In addition, ARI sponsors conferences and seminars in an effort to educate today's fleet managers on all aspects of a 'green' fleet.

"As a strategic fleet partner, ARI must be proactive in helping clients' fleets align with corporate 'green' goals. ARI's EnviroFleet(r) Program addresses the needs of the growing number of companies whose fleets must support corporate 'green' mandates," said Jim Creighton, ARI's Vice President, Global Strategic Services.

Launched in February 2004, the SmartWay Transport Partnership aims to achieve fuel savings of up to 150 million barrels of fuel per year. The Partnership brings together major freight shippers, trucking companies, railroads, and logistics companies to pursue mutually beneficial efficiencies that result in emissions reductions and other environmental improvements, as well as cost savings to the companies. The Partnership currently has nearly 600 Partners.