XPRESS SHUTTLE INTRODUCES WORLD’S FIRST FLEET OF POLLUTION-FREE VEHICLES TO LAX
New Rapid-Charging Technology Makes New Door-to-Door Van Service Possible

(Los Angeles, California – January 5, 2000) Xpress Shuttle today begins door-to-door van service at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) using state-of-the-art, zero-emission electric vehicles. Xpress will initially use 11 Daimler-Chrysler Electric Powered Interurban Commuter (EPIC) minivans and will increase the number to 50 within a year.

The "Electric Xpress" program is unique in the world because it will be the first application of rapid-charging technology in a commercial environment. Using a state-of-the-art rapid-charging technology developed by DaimlerChrysler, an EPIC minivan can be recharged to 80 percent capacity in 20 minutes instead of several hours.

The replacement of gas-powered shuttles with electric vehicles will reduce greenhouse gases in addition to providing a 97 percent reduction in smog-producing compounds. The electric shuttle van fleet is expected to reduce the production of carbon dioxide by 800 tons per year. An additional 150 tons per year of carbon dioxide will be eliminated with the operation of an emission-free, solar carport and charging station in downtown Los Angeles.

"LAX has been at the forefront in introducing clean, alternative-fuel vehicles – including electric – into its ground operations," said Los Angeles World Airports Interim Executive Director Lydia H. Kennard. "To make greater progress, however, we need the help of everyone at LAX. That is why Xpress Shuttle’s conversion to clean, zero-emission vehicles is so important to LAX’s ongoing air quality effort. The vans that begin rolling today offer travelers a ride to LAX that is convenient, comfortable and, most important, good for the environment."

Electric Xpress minivans will average 300 miles per day on a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week operation. Each minivan is designed for up to 100,000 miles of revenue-generating service per year. Given expected fuel cost savings and low maintenance, Electric Xpress minivans are expected to be a profitable venture for Xpress Shuttle.

The program enhances two important features related to electrical vehicles – daily range and time to charge. Rapid chargers, supplied by AeroVironment of Monrovia, will be located at strategic locations throughout the Los Angeles area. Initially, one rapid charger will be located at LAX and the other will be linked to the emission-free carport at the downtown headquarters of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.

Ruth Galanter, Los Angeles City Councilmember in whose Sixth District LAX lies, stated, " I am extremely pleased that pollution-free vans will be carrying travelers to LAX on the ground. It is terribly important to reduce air pollution whenever we can. I applaud Xpress Shuttle, DaimlerChrysler, DWP, and LAWA for employing emission-free technology in these vans and improving its capability at the same time."

Roger Moradi, chief executive officer of Xpress Shuttle, stated, "Our goal is to provide responsive, clean and cost effective transportation to our customers. The introduction of the DaimlerChrysler EPIC minivans into our fleet will enhance our operations while contributing to the reduction of air pollution. Xpress Shuttle is uniquely qualified to operate this program due to our extensive investment in real-time tracking and control information technology. We see expansion beyond the 50-minivan program, as more vehicles become available. We are marching into the future with the Electric Xpress."

"We are excited to participate in this expansion of electric vehicle use that showcases new technology, gives a boost to the economy, and is good for the environment. We are pleased to have participated by installing the new rapid electric chargers. This project is part of DWP’s long-term commitment to develop an electric vehicle infrastructure for Los Angeles that involves a network of more than 200 charging stations for the public and fleet vehicles," said Angelina Galiteva, DWP director of Strategic Planning.

Xpress Shuttle customers may request rides from the electric fleet when making reservations. Initial service will be provided to customers traveling between LAX and downtown Los Angeles or destinations in between.

The Electric Xpress program is a cooperative effort that includes Xpress Shuttle, DaimlerChrysler Corporation, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, and Los Angeles World Airports. Sentry Hill Management Group of Los Angeles developed the concept and coordinated the program.