The Northern Territory Government will not replace its fleet with the most environmentally friendly vehicles available, opting for Australian made instead.

The Government currently has a small number of petrol-electric Toyota Prius vehichles, but will not replace its entire fleet with the Japanese made model, even though it is the best selling hybrid car on the market.

NT Chief Minister Paul Henderson said the Government will deliver on its election commitment of making its fleet ‘cleaner and greener’ by switching to smaller, fuel efficient cars and converting VIP fleet to LPG.

“The Green Fleet strategy will be phased in from July 1 and will save more than one million dollars in fuel costs alone by the end of year five,” Henderson said.

“Where possible, the Northern Territory Government will also ensure the fleet contains Australian-manufactured vehicles.”

He said carbon dioxide emissions from NT Government cars will be reduced by 20 per cent over the five year period.

Under the strategy, government departments will use passenger vehicles with a minimum greenhouse emission standard of 5.5-stars, including Australian made Ford Falcons, Holden Commodores, Toyota Camry and Toyota Aurion.

The VIP fleet of V8 cars will be replaced with V6 and converted to LPG by the end of July.