CPS Energy has announced the purchase of 34 XLP Plug-In Hybrid Electric Ford F-150 pickup trucks, the largest purchase of plug-in F-150s by any utility or private company to date, according to CPS.

The new hybrid trucks will replace an older fleet of vehicles as part of CPS Energy’s plan to reduce the company’s environmental impact and are an investment in reducing its overall carbon footprint.

The hybrid electric system was designed by XL and the trucks deliver 50% better fuel economy and a 33% reduction in emissions over similar standard vehicles, according to manufacturer’s figures that take into consideration long commutes. 

“The Ford F-150 is ideally suited to handle the wide range of jobs the CPS team tackles on a daily basis, and is a perfect vehicle to equip with XL’s unique plug-in hybrid electric technology,” said Greg Dugan, Ford's government accounts manager.

The vehicles are being manufactured by Ford and are equipped with XL’s plug-in hybrid technology, which allows the trucks to run on both gasoline and electric power. In addition to plug-in charging capabilities, the trucks’ technology also uses regenerative braking during deceleration to charge the battery pack, and uses electric assist during acceleration to increase fuel economy.

CPS Energy was designated a 2018 Environmental Champion for the second year in a row by Market Strategies International. In addition to seeking new technologies and opportunities to reduce emissions, CPS Energy is a leader in solar generation in Texas and in the nation, and CPS has also made large investments in wind energy.

CPS Energy is a public power, natural gas, and electric company, providing service to 804,000 electric and 343,000 natural gas customers in San Antonio and portions of seven adjoining counties.