Ford is kicking off a voluntary sustainability initiative for its Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealers by appealing to them to reduce emissions and improve energy-efficiency at their facilities.
Ford plans to test for best practices at three dealerships in diverse climates, as part of what it is calling the "Go Green" dealer sustainability initiative.
The automaker is working with Rocky Mountain Institute, an energy-efficiency organization, to develop new technologies and architectural design principles that dealers can adopt.
The program aims to provide dealers with the ability to elevate energy efficiency and drive down operating costs
Ford unveiled its plan at the 2010 National Automobile Dealers Association Convention.
"This program ... provides a variety of energy-efficient improvement options regardless of the current age and design of the facility," said Sue Cischke, group vice president, Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering, in a press release.
"This allows all dealers the opportunity to participate in improving the energy efficiency of their facility and gives them flexibility in making choices that are right for them and their dealership," she said.
Dealers considering joining the 'Go Green' Dealership Sustainability Program will receive a comprehensive energy assessment from sustainability personnel at Ford, who will help tailor a program to meet the needs of the dealer, for both existing and new construction.
Ford also is trying to hook dealers up with State and Federal tax credits and incentives.
The first three dealers will hail from Florida, New York and Nevada.
