MIAMI, Fla. – Ryder says it is altering its spec’ing decisions to ‘green’ its fleet and improve fuel efficiency while reducing emissions and meeting higher environmental standards.

The company unveiled its new line of RydeGreen tractors and trailers recently, which the company said offers customers the latest technology and design to help reduce emissions and fuel costs.

The company partnered with Freightliner in rolling out its RydeGreen line, consisting of two sleeper tractors spec’d for longhaul applications.

The Columbia and Century Class tractors are EPA SmartWay designated.

The RydeGreen trailers are manufactured by Great Dane and Utility and offer aerodynamic and weight-saving features. Ryder said it is also offering online driver training programs to its customers aimed at improving fuel-efficient driving skills.

“Ryder’s outsourced transportation solutions have historically extended the benefits of our environmental expertise, state-of-the-art maintenance practices, and access to the latest technology to maximize the performance and efficiency of customers’ transportation functions,” said Tony Tegnelia, president of Ryder’s US Fleet Management Solutions. “With RydeGreen vehicles and Ryder Pro-TREAD training programs, Ryder is making it even easier for customers of all sizes to comply with higher EPA07 emissions standards and improve the fuel efficiency of their fleets.”

Some of the technologies involved in the program include: APUs to reduce idling; frame-side fairings to reduce wind resistance; automated transmissions; and fuel-efficient tires. The trailers include: side skirts; weight-saving designs; low rolling resistance tires; tire inflation systems; and gap reducers. More information about the program is available at www.greentruck.ryder.com.