Frito-Lay Goes Electric in its Drive to Go Green

Frito-Lay’s first sustainable trucks hit New York's streets this week. Part of a larger green initiative from PepsiCo, the move is emblematic of a shifting tide in companies’ use of electric commercial vehicles – and a greener consciousness that is becoming part and parcel of good and right business in the 21st century.

Frito-Lay's fleet (the seventh largest in the U.S.) has ordered 176 of the battery-powered delivery trucks. Manufactured by Smith Electric Vehicles, they can run up to 100 miles on a single charge. They boast zero emissions, 75% less greenhouse gas than diesel, "significant" noise pollution reduction and offer a "long-term economically viable solution" for the brand's fleet.

In this initial roll-out, five electric trucks per location will be based in New York City, Columbus, Ohio, and Fort Worth, plus an additional six vehicles in Canada. Brandchannel's Q&A with Mike O’Connell, national director of fleet capability for Frito-Lay, about the change-over is after the jump.Continue reading...