TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute an agreement with Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Inc., (Toyota) to assign the City of Long Beach a Plug-In Prius (Prius) for demonstration and evaluation purposes for a six-week period starting in July 2010. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
City Council approval is being requested to authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Toyota for the purpose of participating in the demonstration and evaluation of a Toyota factory-produced Prius under their Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle (PHV) program.
The City of Long Beach has been offered an opportunity from Toyota to evaluate a Plug-In Prius for a six-week period at no cost to the City. This Plug-In Prius is a newly developed version of the regular hybrid electric Prius, with technology manufactured directly by Toyota. This vehicle will be test driven by various employees in the course of their regular duties throughout the trial period. This will provide both an opportunity to gather data and provide feedback to Toyota, as well as help to determine if this is a viable option for future purchase by the City.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Gary J. Anderson on June 10, 2010 and Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell on June 11, 2010.
SUSTAINABILITY
Utilization of more fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles reduces Long Beach's dependence on foreign oil and provides immediate environmental benefits as the City continues to implement alternative fuel options.
This demonstration PHV program agreement with Toyota will help the City's research of alternative options for fleet vehicles and will offer Toyota valuable feedback as they design and market this vehicle nationwide, in an effort to provide the consumer more fuel efficient vehicles.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on July 6, 2010, to secure availability of a Plug-In Prius to the City of Long Beach, from the Toyota (PHV) program in early July.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no cost for this agreement. Fuel costs will be paid from the Fleet Services Fund (IS 386) in the Department of Public Works (PW). There is no impact to the General Fund (GP), and no local job impact from this action.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
MICHAEL P. CONWAY
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS
APPROVED:
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER