Woodbury police receive electric car from NY Power Authorit

WOODBURY - The Woodbury Police Department now has an emission-free electric powered GEM for its fleet of patrol vehicles. Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson), along with New York Power Authority President Eugene W. Zeltmann presented the Global Electric Motorcar (GEM) to Town Supervisor Sheila Conroy and Chief of Police Robert J. Kwiatkowski during ceremonies Thursday at police department headquarters. Senator Larkin contacted the power authority on behalf of Woodbury town officials to secure the electric vehicle for town use. Senator Larkin said, "I am pleased to have been in a position to advocate for assistance in this important acquisition for the Town of Woodbury. Not only will this emission-free electric powered vehicle help conserve fuel, but it is another important step in protecting public health. I commend Mr. Zeltmann for his strong support of the state's electric vehicle program, and I applaud the Woodbury Police Department and Chief Kwiatkowski for their vision and all their efforts to protect both our citizens and our local environment." "New York State has embarked on a comprehensive strategy to improve air quality and enhance energy independence. Electric vehicles such as the GEM help to lessen dependence on imported oil and reduce harmful emissions," said Zeltmann. Detailing the department's plans for the vehicle, Chief Kwiatkowski added, "The vehicle will be utilized by our officers at our three shopping centers, at school events, in our parks and at other local community events. We are pleased to do our part in furthering the use of emission free vehicles to improve our air quality and dependency on fossil fuels." In 2003, New York Power Authority teamed with Global Electric Motorcars (GEM), a Daimler-Chrysler subsidiary, to provide 300 GEM electric vehicles to state and local government agencies, public parks, and state universities and colleges. GEM passenger vehicles are powered by a 72-volt GE motor and a battery pack comprised of six deep cycle 12-volt batteries. The batteries are charged by plugging the vehicle into a standard 110-volt outlet. With a full charge, the vehicles can operate for approximately 30 miles. With a top speed of 25 miles per hour, GEM vehicles may be driven on public roads that are posted at 35 mph or less. The Power Authority has placed more than 700 electric-drive vehicles in service throughout New York State. NYPA electric transportation projects include electric station cars for commuters, electric school buses and electric delivery trucks. The Power Authority is the nation's largest supplier of electricity for public transportation, providing the power for New York City commuter and subway trains.