Electrifying ASU's Vehicles

Reducing ASU’s carbon footprint through EV purchases

In September 2025, ASU secured $232,500 in federal incentives to accelerate the transition to an electric fleet across its campuses. The funding will help the university replace 10% of its vehicle fleet with electric models. This will reduce transportation-related fossil fuel use by approximately 10% and avoid 75 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. Many vehicles that will be replaced are the most frequently used on campus, which will significantly reduce emissions.

A typical gasoline-powered car emits approximately 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, along with other harmful pollutants, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. These emissions contribute to climate change and degrade local air quality, affecting the environment and public health. 

As part of its sustainability commitment, ASU continues to invest in electric vehicles and expand access to its Shared Fleet program.

“Electrifying our fleet and expanding shared mobility are critical steps in transforming how our campuses move,” said Marc Campbell, assistant vice president and deputy chief sustainability officer, ASU University Sustainability Practices. “These efforts reduce emissions, lower costs and demonstrate how operational decisions can advance ASU’s broader climate leadership.” 

Eleven ASU departments will receive EVs from the federal incentive. In addition to eliminating emissions, EVs offer lower fuel and maintenance costs, while providing a quieter and environmentally friendly driving experience. 

ASU’s policy also prioritizes EV purchases. Departments interested in replacing their gasoline vehicles with EVs should contact ASU Procurement.

Departments are required to work with John Mack, Fleet Program Manager, Facilities Development and Management, to evaluate electric and low-emission options, ensuring vehicles meet departmental needs and environmental goals

ASU’s Shared Fleet includes 23 vehicles, 86% of which are electric. The fleet includes carts, trucks, SUVs and passenger vehicles. 

Employees who have completed the Authorized Driver Program, including student workers and registered volunteers who drive for official university business, can use Shared Fleet vehicles. 

The Shared Fleet consolidates ASU vehicles into a centrally managed system that reduces these factors:

• Environmental impacts of manufacturing waste
• Fuel and maintenance needs
• Parking and storage demand
• Underused and surplus vehicles

Every Shared Fleet vehicle comes with an ASU parking permit, providing free parking in university parking structures and at designated green curb locations to encourage users to avoid driving their personal vehicles for university business.

Shared Fleet vehicles are located at the University Services Building and Fulton Center on the Tempe campus. 

The university’s holistic approach to low-carbon transportation emphasizes sustainability-minded vehicle purchasing and the use of shared vehicles. ASU plans to expand the Shared Fleet to all ASU campuses steadily, increasing EV access and further reducing emissions. 

Through EV purchasing, shared use and ongoing investments in charging and shared mobility, ASU is cutting emissions today while demonstrating how thoughtful transportation decisions can drive lasting climate benefits. 

Editor’s note: This article is part of a series about sustainable purchasing at ASU. Topics include sustainable purchasing best practices, notable suppliers and resources.