Package delivery company UPS has set a new automotive goal to improve the miles per gallon (MPG) performance of its entire U.S. package delivery fleet by 20% between 2000 and 2020. The new goal applies to a U.S. ground fleet of 60,000 vehicles.
In 2009, UPS drivers logged 77.3 million more miles than in 2000, yet fuel consumption decreased by 3.2 million gallons. Fuel efficiency levels were improved through improved vehicle technology, effective vehicle maintenance procedures, fuel conservation efforts, routing technology and operational initiatives such as minimizing engine idling. Alternative fuel technology and vehicle deployments also improve UPS's fuel efficiency.
The automotive goal complements UPS's announcement last year that it will improve the carbon efficiency of its airline by an additional 20% by 2020, for a cumulative reduction of 42% since 1990. The airline represents 53% of the company's global carbon footprint.
