EGG HARBOR TWP, NJ - The Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA) unveiled a zero-emission electric Ford Ranger pickup truck for its light-duty fleet Jan. 21, according to Shore News Today.

The ACUA has been using alternative fuel vehicles for many years, from propane vehicles to biodiesel, for its entire fleet, as well as an electric vehicle used at the Wastewater Treatment Facility in Atlantic City.

In the summer, the ACUA installed an electric charging station at the park, and there is one at its Atlantic City site. Officials said they anticipate adding to their zero-emission fleet. Additional plans include adding a compressed natural gas filling station at the Egg Harbor Township site later this year, reported Shore News.

The zero-emission truck, a 2000 model that has less than 10,000 miles on it, was purchased for $25,000, and is to be used in recycling operations.

The pickup truck has a nickel metal hydride battery pack under the bed that charges in six to eight hours. Its driving range is 61 miles per charge, and it can reach a maximum speed of 70 to 75 mph.

The Ranger "fills up" on electricity generated from landfill trash, at an estimated cost of only 4 cents per mile. Using the electric vehicle will save the ACUA approximately $1,259 per year, a 58 percent savings over fueling a comparable gasoline-powered Ford Ranger, reported Shore News.