ELKRIDGE, MD. — Bimbo Bakeries USA has deployed a new fleet of Ford F-59 delivery vehicles fueled by propane autogas at its Elkridge facility. The fleet was made possible due to a $340,000 grant from the Maryland Energy Administration, which provided funds for 45 vehicles that are expected to displace more than 190,000 gallons of petroleum annually.
“This initiative is the latest in our company’s continued effort to reduce our carbon footprint,” said Gary Maresca, senior director of fleet services for B.B.U.
B.B.U. also has installed an on-site fueling station at its Howard County facility, eliminating the need to refill at retail stations. The company said it expects to see a reduction in operational costs as a result of the lower fuel prices as well as maintenance savings due to the cleaner-burning properties of the fuel.
Mary Beth Tung, director of the M.E.A., said the agency is encouraged by efforts from local companies to embrace alternative fuel vehicles.
“This commitment from B.B.U. is a prime example of the Maryland Clean Cities Coalition in action, featuring partnerships that promote the economy and protect the environment,” Ms. Tung said.
Earlier this year, B.B.U. introduced 84 new Ford F-59 trucks, equipped with Roush CleanTech fuel technology, in three major markets: Chicago, Denver and Washington. The trucks work as route vehicles delivering B.B.U. products, such as Thomas’, Oroweat, Entenmann’s and Sara Lee, to retail locations.
