SmartWay was launched by the EPA in 2004 to provide cleaner and more efficient transportation methods in the United States. Subsequently, SmartWay Transport was begun as a joint effort between the EPA and the freight industry — trucking companies, railroad carriers, maritime cargo — to achieve the same environmental and energy goals.

To become part of the program, the EPA ranks each freight carrier’s fuel efficiency methods and environmental performance. Penske’s 200,000-vehicle fleet received a 1.25 rating, the highest score possible. Penske’s cutting-edge fleet technology, as well as other fuel efficient strategies and ongoing education of customers and employees alike, helped it achieve the score.

Why it matters to Eco-Modernism

We’ve been leasing trucks and vans from Penske for our IKEA® runs to the DC IKEA® store. It would appear we selected a conscientious business truck leasing option. Nice little tidbit to add to the green factor of our making one trip for many instead of the other way around. [via the awesome MATTER blog]

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