New York turns back to diesel snow plows and leaves electric vehicles behind
New York’s Winter Snow Plows Stick to Diesel Power, Ditching Electric Plans
The New York Department of Sanitation had high hopes of putting electric snow plows on the streets this winter, but those plans have come to a halt after a disappointing testing period. Instead, the city will rely on diesel-powered plows to clear the snow.
Electric Trucks Fail to Measure Up
Three years ago, the department purchased seven electric garbage trucks made by Mack LR Electric. These trucks were part of a larger initiative to transition the city’s fleet to “clean” energy vehicles by 2035. However, the electric trucks proved to be insufficient for snow plowing, lacking the power of their diesel counterparts.
Costly Investment
Each Mack truck came with a hefty price tag of over $523,000. Despite this investment, the electric vehicles only made up a small fraction of the department’s fleet, which consists of 2,100 garbage trucks and 6,000 total vehicles.
Failed Trial Period
The trial period for the electric trucks did not yield the desired results. Commissioner Jessica Tish of the New York Department of Sanitation expressed her disappointment during a City Council hearing, stating that the non-diesel trucks were ineffective at plowing snow for extended periods of time.
Challenges of Electric Vehicles in Winter
It seems that the department’s goal of fully electrifying their fleet by 2040 may not be achievable. Not only do the electric trucks struggle in cold temperatures, but studies have shown that electric vehicles in general require extra care and have lower fuel efficiency during the winter season.
According to a 2019 study by AAA, an electric vehicle’s driving range can drop by around 41% when the temperature is 20 degrees and the heat is on.
The New York Department of Sanitation has been contacted for further comment.
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What are the key technologies and tools utilized in Precision Agriculture Automation, and how do they optimize farming practices?
Precision Agriculture Automation utilizes a wide range of technologies and tools to optimize farming practices. Here are some key ones:
1. Global Positioning System (GPS): GPS technology allows farmers to accurately identify the location of vehicles, machinery, and sensors in the field. It helps in precise mapping, navigation, and tracking of activities, enabling farmers to optimize field operations.
2. Remote Sensing: Various remote sensing techniques like satellite imagery, aerial photography, drones, and sensors are used to collect data about crops and fields. This data provides valuable insights on plant health, soil moisture, nutrient levels, and pest/disease occurrence. It helps farmers to make informed decisions related to crop management.
3. Geographic Information Systems (GIS): GIS technology integrates spatial information with farm data, creating maps and visualizations that aid in decision-making. It enables farmers to analyze patterns, identify problem areas, plan optimal routes, and manage resources efficiently.
4. Internet of Things (IoT): IoT devices, such as sensors and actuators, are deployed in the field to collect real-time data on weather conditions, soil moisture, temperature, and other environmental factors. These devices enable timely and automated actions, such as irrigation, fertilization, and pest control, leading to improved resource allocation and reduced waste.
5. Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machine learning algorithms and AI techniques enable the analysis of large-scale data sets collected from various sources. By processing this data, predictive models can be developed to optimize crop yield, detect anomalies, and provide personalized recommendations for farming practices.
6. Precision Sprayers and Spreaders: These automated machines use technology like GPS and sensors to precisely apply fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. This ensures that the inputs are used only where needed, reducing chemical usage and environmental impact. It also helps in preventing weed growth and pest infestation.
7. Automated Irrigation Systems: These systems use sensors and data analysis to determine optimal irrigation schedules and apply water precisely where required. This avoids over- or under-irrigation, conserves water resources, and promotes plant health.
Overall, these technologies and tools in Precision Agriculture Automation optimize farming practices by improving resource efficiency, reducing chemical inputs, minimizing environmental impact, and enhancing crop productivity and quality. They enable farmers to make data-driven decisions, enhance sustainability, and achieve better overall yields.
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