Claude Masters is manager of vehicle acquisition and fuel at Florida Power & Light (FPL), the largest electric utility in Florida and one of the largest rate-regulated utilities in the United States.

The company recently announced that, by the end of the decade, it plans to purchase only electric vehicles and hybrids for its company fleet and aims to be running an all-electric or hybrid-based fleet within 10 years.

Mr Masters said that power companies want to position themselves as prime electricity suppliers before charging stations are as common as gas stations. 

NAFA’s executive director Phillip E Russo highlighted how NAFA and its members have long been interested in alternative fuels and clean energy vehicles, adding: ‘In fact, fleet managers have been on the forefront of just about every alternative fuel there is. In addition to electric vehicles and hybrids, NAFA Members have been using alternative fuels such as biodiesel, CNG, and LNG for decades. We even have members using hydrogen vehicles in their fleet today. Oftentimes, car manufacturers will seek out fleets to be used as test subjects for vehicles still very much in their infancy. The data compiled through fleet use helps spur vehicle development for mainstream use down the line.’

NAFA added that it has steadfastly been involved in environmental issues, often working with the EPA and the Department of Energy to provide the fleet point of view on pending legislation for decades. 

‘Fleet managers today are looking to save money, promote the use of non-fossil fuel vehicles, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,’ said Mr Russo. ‘For NAFA and the fleet managers who comprise our association, the environment and cost savings go hand in hand. Sometimes doing the right thing really does pay off. In this case, it’s a win-win for everyone.’