UPS tested five CV-23 pilot vehicles from Utilimaster/Isuzu to determine if the vehicles could meet the demands of UPS's operating needs, while producing positive environmental benefits.

Overview of Testing:

• The testing of these traditionally fueled, alternative design vehicles began in April 2011 and concluded in April 2012.

• The trucks tested were Utilimaster/Isuzu REACH vehicles with a payload capacity of 630 cubic feet of cargo space compared to 700 cubic feet in the P70.

• The goal of the testing was to determine if the CV-23 could withstand the rigors of UPS's daily delivery routes while achieving a 40 percent increase in fuel efficiency over the UPS P70 diesel package car. Factors that were tested include: durability, repair qualities, and structural strength.

• The CV-23 is approximately 900 lbs lighter than the P70 due to the use of composite body panels and other body elements.

• The 150-horsepower truck utilizes an Isuzu four-cylinder diesel engine and a six-speed Aisin automatic transmission. The engine is smaller than a traditional UPS diesel engine with the goal that the smaller engine will sip less fuel during daily operations.

• UPS chose five locations to determine the ability of the CV-23 to handle all types of climate conditions. These routes were chosen because they presented varied extremes that UPS vehicles encounter around the country. The deployment areas included:
  • Lincoln, Nebraska – rough back roads
  • Albany, New York – tough winter conditions
  • Tuscon, Arizona – extreme heat of the desert
  • Flint, Michigan – long urban route near Isuzu headquarters
  • Acworth, Georgia – high mileage route and close access for the UPS corporate automotive department

Overview of Results and Next Steps:

• The test vehicles demonstrated high reliability in all markets and succeeded in achieving a 40 percent increase in fuel efficiency as a result of the advanced powertrain technology, overall vehicle weight reduction and new body aerodynamics.  Ease of repairs, durability and maintenance also proved to be positive.

• As part of UPS's commitment to growing its alternative fleet and minimizing its environmental impact, UPS has ordered 150 Utilimaster/Isuzu CV-23 vehicles to operate along high mileage routes; delivery is expected Q4 of 2012.

• As a result of the testing, UPS has become even more comfortable with composite material and will consider adding more composite components into larger vehicle types to reduce vehicle weight.