Our team took on a pioneering project for the largest military naval logistics provider on the Oregon Coast. We were tasked with reducing their carbon footprint while maintaining operational readiness amid environmental and logistical pressures. Our client had been facing demands from the EPA and executive orders to lessen their environmental impact. However, their aging fleet of gas and diesel-powered vehicles producing unregulated emissions presented a significant setback. We built a plan to modernize their fleet with an eco-friendly and low-maintenance alternative, proposing a gradual integration of plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles. This phased approach would minimize operational downtime and provide ample opportunities for crew training and essential vessel maintenance.

The objectives of this initiative were as follows: to reduce carbon emissions and fuel consumption, comply with military environmental regulations, achieve a rapid return on investment, and enhance overall logistical efficiency. However, the project was not without its challenges. The client's existing fleet was outdated, incurring high maintenance costs, and the logistics of covering 250 miles of frequently traveled routes added complexity. Moreover, staff training for operating and maintaining the new vehicles was critical to the transition.

Our solution encompassed several strategies. First, we conducted a comprehensive fleet audit, recommending a transition to a mix of plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles that aligned with the client's sustainability goals and promised long-term financial benefits. To support this green fleet, we installed charging stations across vital routes spanning 250 miles, ensuring seamless operations without range anxiety. Additionally, we provided extensive training programs for staff and crew, covering the operation and maintenance of the new vehicles, thus empowering them to manage the fleet effectively.

The results were significant. Environmentally, there was a marked reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. Financially, the integration led to savings of $20K in fuel and maintenance costs, with our client achieving the planned return on investment within three years. Operationally, the project resulted in increased vehicle uptime and improved route planning, thanks to strategically placed charging stations. This project not only met the immediate needs of our client but also set a precedent for sustainable fleet management in challenging operational situations.

Testimonial

"[Element Consultants] continuously re-programmed our vehicle fleet to match our needs . . . [they] eliminated the use of oversized vehicles saving $20K+ . . . [their] continuous improvement reduced vehicle expenses by 10% . . . ” - Group Commander