New buses meeting all requirements will be purchased as older buses are phased out. The University motor pool consists of 384 cars, trucks, maintenance vehicles, and vans. These vehicles are used by various departments throughout campus with a wide array of functions. Gasoline and diesel fuel are provided by independent contractors according to an existing state contract. Through this contract, the University is able to realize significant cost savings.
Fuel economy is a very important factor when purchasing new fleet vehicles.
According to Huggins, U.S.C. does not commonly purchase vehicles with poor gasoline mileage. The Transportation Services Department recently purchased equipment to monitor the oxygen content of vehicle emissions. This enables mechanics to maximize the fuel efficiency of individual vehicles by insuring the proper amount of gasoline enters carburetors and fuel injection systems. The equipment was purchased in response to the Clean Air Act Ammendments of 1990. In the course of vehicle fleet maintenance, several hazardous materials are used and subsequent waste is generated.