Air BP, a leading international aviation fuel supplier, is launching into the Middle East a groundbreaking new aircraft refueling vehicle that provides 100 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions.

The new vehicle will also reduce approximately one tonne of fluid wastes like engine oils and coolants.

Air BP's Environmentally Friendly Refueling Vehicles (EFRVs) is being showcased for the first time in the region at the Dubai Air Show 2007 which opened on Sunday at the Dubai International Airport Expo.

"This exciting technology is making its regional debut at Dubai air show and coincides with a period of strong growth for the region's aviation sector which is also investing in environmentally friendly practices in line with the global industry's effort to reduce emission levels," said general manager, Air BP, Middle East, Thorsten Luft.

"Air BP has invested significantly in the development of our EFRV and will continue to do so in every aspect of our business in line with BP's brand values and principles and its strategy of alternative energy sources," he added.

Each of Air BP's EFRVs is powered by 96-volt DC motor coupled to the standard Isuzu manual transmission. The battery bank is charged from mains power in off peak times, taking between 2-4 hours. On board solar panels charge two 12 or 24 volt batteries, which in turn power the brake interlock system, lights, hydraulic power pack and a small air compressor. Any surplus power from these solar panels is directed to the main 96-volt battery bank.

"The lack of standards for electric vehicles reinforced the need to carry out a thorough review showing that the vehicle would be able to meet the stringent standards required by the aviation refuelling industry," said manager, Air BP Engineering in the Middle East, Ulhas Mehta, who has been closely associated with the development of the vehicle. - TradeArabia News Service