(Arizona News Connection) A new report found Arizona could save taxpayers $283 million if state and local governments transition their light-duty fleets to electric vehicles over the next decade.

According to the Arizona Public Interest Research Group Education Fund, if the state and its local governments replaced the nearly 20,000 light-duty fleet vehicles which are set to retire over the next decade with EVs, taxpayers would save big.

The move would also help mitigate pollution from gas- and diesel-powered cars and trucks contributing to poor air quality in the state.

Diane Brown, executive director of the Arizona PIRG and co-author of the report, said buying, fueling and maintaining gas- and diesel-fueled fleet vehicles is a "big expense." She argued state and local leaders need to take action independently and collaboratively.

"To accomplish this the state and local governments should develop bold fleet electrification plans," Brown asserted.

Brown recognizes the transition to electric would require "significant" upfront investment, but added incentives such as the Commercial Clean Vehicle Credit, which offers savings of up to $7,500 per light-duty vehicle or $40,000 per heavy-duty vehicle for purchases of EVs by government or private fleets, can help offset costs.

The findings released today follow a report published last October, which examined how 10 of Arizona's largest cities and towns could save a total of approximately $80 billion by replacing their light-duty vehicles with EVs.

Brown pointed out the transition to electric will also help contribute to better air quality and public health outcomes, and added now is the time to commit to the transition.

"By transitioning to electric vehicles, there will be improvements in our air and also for individuals that suffer from asthma or other respiratory issues," Brown contended.

The report stated there are benefits to cooperation for governments and agencies electrifying their fleets and can achieve cost savings by pooling purchases of vehicles and equipment, and advocating for policies to eliminate barriers.