Our Success Story this week takes us to Atlanta, Georgia, headquarters of the giant Coca-Cola Company. As part of their commitment to the environment, Coke has added more than 750 hybrid-electric delivery trucks to their U.S. and Canadian fleets. The company’s interest in hybrid vehicles started in 2001. Since then they’ve worked with truck builder Eaton, to develop platforms that meet their various direct-store delivery needs. This 35-foot-trailer, with regenerative braking, works well for multiple stops. Coke says this large, hybrid truck is the workhorse of their fleet, but it isn’t the only vehicle in their alt-fuel lineup. 

STEVE SALTZGIVER: A big benefit, of course, is our sustainability portfolio and recognition that we get in the market. And probably the most important thing is we’re doing the right thing; that’s in our social life, so to speak, in promoting this technology that’s out there.

The hybrid-electric delivery trucks represent about 10% of Coca-Cola’s overall North American fleet. Federal funds from the Department of Energy through the Clean Cities Atlanta Coalition helped with the acquisition. Advanced hybrid technology represents “Open Happiness” for the popular soft-drink company and its many fans worldwide.

For more information, please visit the Clean Cities website. You can also view recent segments by clicking here.