BP America donates solar-charged vehicle to be used at Sandy Point State Park
ANNAPOLIS (Feb. 7, 2008) — Maryland continues to be a national leader in protecting the environment and exploring the practical use of alternative sources of energy. The State took one more small step towards that end when Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officials accepted the agency’s first solar-charged, all-terrain vehicle from BP America at the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge on Saturday, January 26, 2008 at Sandy Point State Park.
Malcolm Woolf, Director of the Maryland Energy Administration, facilitated the donation from BP America, which marks the company’s third solar vehicle donation to the State.
“These vehicles support our commitment to making the State’s vehicle fleet greener, reducing auto-emissions and costs for Maryland citizens,” said Governor Martin O’Malley in a statement. “I applaud BP America’s continuing vision and generosity.”
The Solar Utility Vehicle, which is now in service at Sandy Point State Park, has 31 horsepower and boasts over 170 pounds of torque. The vehicle base was manufactured by Bad Boy Enterprises and modified to employ a BP solar panel which is affixed to the roof of the vehicle. With seating capacity for four, the four-wheel drive vehicle offers a quiet, clean, non-polluting means of transportation for park officials.
Representing the Governor were Deputy Secretary Eric Schwaab and Maryland Park Service Superintendent Nita Settina.
“As we work to implement fully sustainable practices on all public lands, we are extremely pleased to accept the department’s first 100 percent solar-charged vehicle,” said Schwaab.
Stationed on the beach in busy summer months, the SUV will allow park staff to move quickly over various terrains.
“There are multiple opportunities for the vehicle to be utilized within the park setting,” said Settina. ”In addition to aiding park staff mobility, use of the vehicle in high visibility areas will promote environmental responsibility and the park’s commitment to sustainability.”
RELATED INFORMATION:
More Information About BP’s sources of Green, Alternative Energy
http://www.bp.com/us
State Accepts Donation of Maryland's First Solar Utility Vehicle, August 17, 2007
http://somd.com/news/headlines/2007/6275.shtml
State House Police Go Green with Electric Vehicles, January 12, 2008
http://somd.com/news/headlines/2008/7016.shtml