Truckers moving freight in California who are looking to improve fuel efficiency have a renewed opportunity to help them purchase a hybrid truck.

Under the California Air Resources Board�s (ARB) Hybrid Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Program (HVIP), transportation professionals interested in upgrading to hybrid fleets can receive a grant to help them cover the cost.

The 2011 program officially launched on February 15, marking the second year for HVIP.

Under HVIP, $18 million in grants are up for grabs to interested participants. Both public and private fleets can receive up to $40,000 in grants through participating dealerships honoring the vouchers, which are offered on a first-come basis. The ARB claims the vouchers can help cut the costs of purchasing a new hybrid truck by as much as half.

HVIP originally started in 2007, when California implemented the Air Quality Improvement Program to jumpstart lower greenhouse gas emissions and fuel use throughout the state.

In 2010, ARB provided almost $20 million to program participants, helping them purchase more than 650 hybrid trucks and buses. Not only are the hybrid trucks shown to decrease smog and other air pollutants throughout the state, they have also accounted for trucks� lower fuel usage and improved MPG.

You can learn more about HVIP by visiting their website at http://www.californiahvip.com.

What do you think about the program?

Have you purchased a hybrid truck?

Do you believe using hybrid trucks is the future of trucking?