The city of Oakland Park recently selected the Ford Escape hybrid as the replacement for one of its 11 city vehicles. The Community Development Department will be using the eco-friendly compact SUV which replaces a 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier.

Oakland Park is one of the latest Floridian cities and counties looking to replace their older vehicles with hybrids and other fuel-efficient vehicles. The counties of Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach have been adding hybrids to their fleets since 2000. Same with the cities of Broward, Coral Springs and Hollywood. Originally the Oakland Park city commissioners were considering purchasing five hybrids but are still unsure of the technology. States Mayor Steve Arnst, "I work in the business and I'm not sold on hybrids. What happens if they go through water and it knocks out the electrical panel? I want a vehicle that is useful and is not going to be breaking down." Thus the city decided to purchase one to see how much it will ultimate cost in fuel and any repairs.

Related:

• Florida energy bill promotes renewables, conservation
• "Huge" potential for alternative fuels in Florida

[Source: South Florida Sun-Sentinel]