SP0197: Athletics & Recreation Electric Gator

The Athletics & Recreation Department currently owns and operates 2 John Deere gators for use on its grounds facilities for the downtown campus. This equipment is used extensively during their daily operations for grounds and programming support.

These vehicles are both over 15 years old and have exceeded their life expectancy. In keeping with the University's vision for operational sustainability as well as carbon neutrality, Athletics & Recreation seeks to replace these aging vehicles that are at the end of their life cycle with electric units. While not all electric replacements for fuel-operated equipment are yet viable, this type of equipment is. This type of equipment is particularly important as small motorized vehicles emit a disproportionately large amount of fumes, to which the operators are directly exposed. By switching to electric units, the university will be able to reduce our greenhouse gases, show a proof of concept for further electric vehicle purchases, as well as demonstrate leadership to our many stakeholders.

Replacements for this type of equipment are available in electric versions but at a significantly greater price point. A new normal gator costs approximately $9,500, while opting for an electric version would cost $16,000. Also, used versions of the fuel gator are available, further increasing the potential price difference. 

Resources from the SPF will be used to offset some of the costs of purchasing one new electric gator.