UPS is changing into a ‘greener’ gear as official logistics partner for US stock car races thisyear by making its Trackside Services more environmentally friendly.
The upgrade for NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) events aims to reduceenvironmental impact and create a model for other racing teams and sponsors to reduce harmfulemissions and optimise power generation with state-of-the-art solar power.
UPS became a NASCAR partner in 2000 providing critical behind-the-scenes pick-up and deliveryservices for race teams, sponsors, racing officials, vendors and news media at NASCAR Sprint CupSeries events across the USA.
Throughout the 2012 season, the US parcel operator began working on plans to further reduce theenvironmental impact of its Trackside Services operation that serve as an example of improvedefficiency to drive superior environmental performance throughout the sport.
Starting with this season’s opening events at Daytona International Speedway, UPS will operate atruck equipped with a diesel exhaust fluid (D.E.F.) system used to reduce exhaust particulatematter. Additionally, the service trailer has been outfitted with high-tech, state-of-the-art solarpanels, designed and installed by Suniva to help supplement sustainable energy needed to run theoperation. The mobile unit features a photovoltaic (PV) powered system with a large array ofbattery power, which also provides for a generator and access to shore power.
“NASCAR has stated its commitment to making the sport more environmentally responsible and as anofficial NASCAR partner, UPS is equally committed to this important goal,” Ron Rogowski, UPS vicepresident, global brand and sponsorships, said. “UPS is leveraging its knowledge of alternativefuel and advanced fleet technology, renewable energy and carbon mitigation to reduce our carbonimpact at sports venues.”
One of the most recognised tools for the UPS Trackside Services team is a miniature UPS packagecar that makes pick-ups and deliveries for customers throughout the race weekend. This year, themini car is a battery powered electric cart that is also outfitted with Suniva solar panels toserve as an additional source of power. These upgrades, which allow for an additional five miles aday of travel and deliveries around the track, will be visible to fans and promote UPS’s commitmentto sustainability.
“NASCAR Green has become one of the most influential environmental awareness platforms in thehistory of the US since its inception in 2008,” Mike Lynch, NASCAR managing director of greeninnovation, said. “NASCAR’s millions of fans are now 100% more likely than nonfans to view theirhousehold as very green and always looking for ways to positively impact the environment, up from70% more likely in 2011. A major reason for this unprecedented impact has been the efforts ofpartners like UPS in reducing our sport’s environmental impact by transferring solutions from theircore business.”
