INTRODUCING HYBRID TECHNOLOGY TO THE EL PASEO FLEET
The hybrid gas engine and electric motor combination is like a marriage made in heaven. Actually, it was a marriage made in a research lab.
The hybrid powerplant combines a gas engine and electric motor. As you come to a complete stop, for example, the gas engine automatically shuts down. When the gas engine is running, it recharges the battery pack.
At speeds up to 25 mph, the electric motor provides all the power. It features a compact design that operates on power drawn both from the battery pack and from a generator motor, and emits virtually no harmful pollutants.
With V-6-like acceleration, the gas engine seamlessly takes over as speed increases. The engine incorporates an Atkinson cycle to slightly delay intake valve closing for improved efficiency/fuel economy. In fact, this engine helps Mariner Hybrid achieves the coveted Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) certification.
The El Paseo Mariner Hybrid is operated under the El Paseo/LEAP carbon-offset program — a claim no other limousine operator can make.
Along with the purchase of 2008 Hybrid Mariner, El Paseo has also implemented a rigorously monitored fleet maintenance plan that ensures the cleanest possible emissions and has established a no idling policy and speed restrictions for drivers.
We are already seeing the benefits that energy efficiency presents. Even seemingly small steps taken such as stopping unnecessary idling can have profoundly positive effects on our environment.