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NUNAVUT - The Government of Nunavut is quietly testing a hybrid gas/electric vehicle in Iqaluit to determine whether similar models can help cut down on its fossil fuel dependence.

Aside from a tiny green leaf and the word "hybrid" on the trunk, the green Ford Escape is indistinguishable from any other vehicle of its class around town. But while making little waves, big hopes are pinned on whether it withstands its first harsh, Arctic winter.

Adam Gordon, manager of energy initiatives for the department of community and government services, stands in front of a hybrid vehicle in Iqaluit. The Government of Nunavut is hoping vehicles like this will help cut down on its fuel dependence. - Karen Mackenzie/NNSL photo

"The idea is, if it is successful, to not only implement it through the government fleet, but to let the public know it's a viable alternative in the North," said Shawn Maley, assistant deputy minister with the department of community and government services (CGS).

Powered by a nickel-metal-hydride battery, the Escape collects kinetic energy every time the brakes are applied.

At 12 km per litre, its fuel consumption is "a third better for regular city driving and this is the only kind of driving necessary here," he said.

While cost-effectiveness is obviously a key benefit, it will also help reduce carbon emissions, Maley pointed out.

"And this is all a part of our energy conservation program," he said. "Success in this area comes from small things and the more you do it, the better it is."

The GN currently owns 500 vehicles territory-wide and procures about 15 new ones a year. The hybrid's performance will be monitored throughout the winter and, if successful, it may influence future purchase policy, according to Maley.

"But so far it's performing well and I don't think the winter will be any different," said Adam Gordon, manager of energy initiatives for CGS.

A little over 1,300 km have been put on it so far, mostly because everyone is taking it for a test drive, he said.

Staff members are given a brief rundown of its features before heading out. Some things, like the engine's shutdown mode when idling or coming to a stop, can be slightly off-putting for first-time drivers, Gordon said.

"I think everybody in our office has given it a shot, with no complaints," he said. "We're just trying to put as many miles on it as possible."