Continuing its transition to a more environmentally-friendly fleet, Cox Enterprises has added nine International Durastar Hybrid Bucket Trucks to its fleet.

The hybrid trucks from Navistar provide dramatic potential fuel savings of nearly 60 percent in utility-type applications when the engine is shut off and electric power still operates the vehicle. Diesel emissions are completely eliminated when the hybrid truck operates equipment such as overhead utility booms solely on the truck’s battery power, instead of requiring the engine to run.

With the 13th largest fleet in the country, Cox is transitioning its fleet to lessen its impact on the environment by using flex-fuel vehicles and replacing existing vehicles with more fuel-efficient and/or hybrid models. Cox’s fleet is comprised of more than 15,000 vehicles — of which 257 are hybrids and 1,400 are capable of running on biodiesel.

“At Cox, we’re exploring all options to lessen our reliance on traditional petroleum resources,” said Mike Mannheimer, vice president and chief procurement officer, Cox Enterprises. “Through our Cox Conserves program, we are actively reducing our company’s carbon footprint, and these trucks are part of the larger solution. Not only are they better for the environment, but they also reduce our overall fuel costs.”

The hybrid trucks will be used by Cox Enterprises’ multi-service broadband communications and entertainment subsidiary, Cox Communications. A “boom” or “bucket arm” extends on the trucks so wires on utility poles can be repaired or maintained. The hybrid trucks will be used in the following Cox Communications locations:

· Hampton Roads, Va. (2)

· New Orleans

· Oklahoma City

· Orange County, Calif.

· Phoenix, Ariz.

· Rhode Island

· San Diego, Calif.

· Springfield, Va.

“Cox is taking a leadership role in the telecommunications industry when it comes to operating clean, green vehicles,” said Jim Williams, director of new product sales and distribution, Navistar. “They’ll save money on fuel, run quieter trucks, and significantly reduce emissions in their communities.”

For more information about ordering hybrid trucks, customers can visit www.InternationalTrucks.com.