Sierra Club Applauds Climate Mayors’ Plan to Electrify Fleets

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, WIRED Magazine reported that the City of Los Angeles and 29 other cities across the country have joined together to collectively work towards electrifying their vehicle fleets. All told, the cities own more than 115,000 vehicles, with an estimated value of $10 billion according to the report. The group also launched driveEVfleets.org, a portal to allow more cities around the country to take advantage of the deals.

Transportation currently accounts for nearly one-third of greenhouse gas emissions and most of the oil used in the U.S. -- overwhelmingly the largest pollution source in the country. Switching to zero emission vehicles can reduce air pollution and save cities money, due to reduced maintenance and fuelling costs.

In response, Sierra Club’s Clean Transportation for All Campaign Director Gina Coplon-Newfield released the following statement:

“The Sierra Club applauds the Climate Mayors for taking the step towards electrifying their vehicle fleets. While our cars have been part of our climate problem, clean cars can and will be part of the solution. To help avoid the worst effects of climate disruption and protect our communities, it’s critical that our government -- on all levels -- lead the way in transitioning to  electric vehicles. Reducing the initial cost of zero emission city fleet vehicles is a big step toward widespread adoption. Dozens of cities across the country have pledged to transition to zero emission vehicles, and this program will encourage more cities and city residents to follow suit.”