Public Works Administration
Fleet
Department

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Public Works Administration

Fleet Department
Electric Ranger Pickup Program

In the spring of 2000 the City of Midwest City will begin a venture into the automotive world of the future. With a financial assistance grant from the Department of Energy, the City of Midwest City purchased two totally electric Ford Ranger pickups and two Power Control Stations (PCS). Electric vehicles (EVs) are clean, quiet and on the cutting edge of advanced technology. The EPA considers the Electric Ranger pickup as a zero emission vehicle.

Fleets have been targeted as one of the initial markets for EVs because fleets provide an ideal testing platform for EVs. By placing two EVs into applications previously held by conventionally fueled vehicles, the city can lower its maintenance costs, reduce fuel consumption and eliminate exhaust emissions of two vehicles. Typically fleet applications would be meter reading, staff motor pools, postal/package delivery and security patrol.

The EV Rangers use a 90hp, electric motor which is powered by 39 lead-acid type batteries. Each battery carries 8 volts, for a combined total of 312 volts. This power unit coupled with a direct drive transaxle provides plenty of range and more than enough power for the City's light duty pickup applications. At each PCS, batteries can be charged to 80% capacity in about 3 hours, 100% capacity requires approximately 6 to 8 hours. An overnight charge can provide up to 50 miles of urban driving, with a top speed exceeding 60 mph.

Operating EVs in a fleet application demands special maintenance and operating procedures. The Fleet Services Department recognized a need for an EV technician-training program and contacted the Mid-Del Electric Technology Center for assistance with the program. To date the center has trained five MWC Fleet technicians, one of which has gone on to become a state certified EV technician. In accordance with the conditions of the grant, Fleet Services will maintain these vehicles, document all maintenance and operating costs, and make such documentation available to all interested parties for the life of the vehicles.

An open exchange of information should encourage others to participate in an EV program of their own by offsetting some of their research and development costs. Midwest City has always taken a proactive approach to environmental concerns and conservation issues. The Electric Ranger Pickup program is just on example of the City's alternative fuels program, for more information contact Vaughn K. Sullivan, Fleet/Street Superintendent (405) 739-1361.