HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of General Services (DGS) has announced that Commonwealth used vehicle auctions have generated a record-breaking $19.2 million over the past two years. This achievement highlights the success of the Shapiro Administration’s initiatives to improve fleet management, promote fiscal responsibility, and align with sustainability and safety priorities.
The year 2024 alone accounted for $10.1 million in auction revenue, surpassing the single-year record of $9.1 million set in the prior year. These results stem from an active vehicle replacement strategy aimed at phasing out outdated, high-maintenance vehicles in favor of modern, safer, and more cost-efficient alternatives. This program has yielded $1.5 million in savings in repair costs over the past two years.
“The Shapiro Administration’s focus on smart fiscal policies and innovative solutions has delivered extraordinary results for Pennsylvania,” said Brian Esposito, DGS Deputy Secretary for Procurement. “Our vehicle replacement program is helping us provide Commonwealth employees with safer, more reliable vehicles while saving taxpayers money in the long term. By retiring older vehicles before maintenance costs escalate, we’re making smarter fiscal decisions that benefit everyone.”
Fleet Modernization and Safety Enhancements
Between 2023 and 2024, the Bureau of Vehicle Management (BVM), which oversees these operations, implemented the largest fleet renewal initiative in over a decade, replacing 43% of leased vehicles (1,639 total) and 24% of agency-owned vehicles. These newer vehicles come equipped with advanced safety features such as lane assist, blind spot monitoring, and all-wheel drive, reducing the severity and frequency of accidents involving Commonwealth employees.
“As vehicles age, the cost to maintain them skyrockets, and reliability plummets,” said Jim Fiore, Director of the BVM. “Governor Shapiro’s Administration has prioritized replacing vehicles at the right time to avoid expensive downtime and repairs. These upgrades are fiscally smarter but also ensure that Commonwealth employees have access to safe and reliable transportation.”
The program’s focus on retiring vehicles while they retain resell value has further maximized public funds, turning outdated vehicles into a source of revenue while reducing operational inefficiencies.
Sustainability Efforts Accelerate
Beyond cost savings and safety, the modernization effort reflects Pennsylvania’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The Commonwealth has expanded its alternative fuel fleet to include 33 battery electric vehicles (BEVs), with an additional 39 in stock. Popular models such as the Ford Mach-E and Chevy Bolt highlight the state’s move toward greener vehicle options. The fleet also boasts 82 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and 138 hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).
“These investments in electric and hybrid vehicles not only help reduce our environmental footprint but also lower fuel and maintenance costs,” added Fiore. “Our fleet is getting greener, safer, and more cost-efficient—delivering benefits across the board for the Commonwealth and its citizens.”
Public Auctions Open to All
The Commonwealth holds six vehicle auctions annually, hosted by the Manheim Keystone Pennsylvania Auto Auction in Grantville, PA. Open to the general public, including auto dealers, these auctions serve as a key revenue-generating channel. The next auction is scheduled for 10 a.m. on April 15.
Looking Forward
With record-breaking revenue and substantial savings already realized, the Shapiro Administration remains committed to further advancing fiscal responsibility, safety, and sustainability. Continued modernization of the fleet will aid in reducing repair costs, enhancing worker safety, and achieving Pennsylvania’s environmental goals. These collective efforts position the Commonwealth as a leader in effective asset management, benefitting both taxpayers and employees alike.
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