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ESF Adds EV Truck to Its University Police Fleet
SYRACUSE, New York – Jan. 26, 2023 - The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF), one of the nation's premier colleges focused exclusively on the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable future, is proud to announce the addition of an EV truck to its University Police Department fleet.
ESF is the first SUNY campus to have an EV vehicle—a Ford F150 Lightning Pro—in its UPD fleet.
"The truck continues ESF's commitment to sustainable practices in all aspects of campus life," said ESF President Joanie Mahoney. "Our officers are proud to support the College's mission and lead the way for other SUNYs."
UPD's electric truck is well-suited for its small-campus duties, which often require high idle times in traditional vehicles. The electric truck will remain fully functional and operational while remaining stationary, reducing emissions associated with traditional idling. ESF Police Chief Robert Dugan noted it's important for UPD to have a full-sized EV to accommodate their police equipment and be useful for patrolling campus properties in the winter and if needed
As a state agency, ESF is required to transition its fleet of vehicles to electric by 2035. ESF's entire fleet currently features six hybrid vehicles and 14 100-percent electric vehicles.
"EV trucks can be pricey, but we acquired ours for $36,000," said Dugan. "There are currently waitlists for EV trucks, but ESF was fortunate to get ahead of the curve with the support of College leadership."
The new UPD truck also presented the opportunity for the department to change the look of the whole fleet with vehicles sporting a thin green stripe highlighting the vehicle's "green" aspects and the College's signature color.
About SUNY ESF
The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.