March 2, 2009: A new keyless ignition and entry system is being installed on package cars in Georgia. After using Local 728 members as guinea pigs, UPS plans to go national with the system.

The technology works like this. One short push on the remote unit enables ignition. A second push on a separate dash-mounted unit actually starts the engine. Drivers toggle a switch up to start the engine and down to turn it off. A second push to the bottom opens the bulkhead door.

The remote unit can also be used to unlock and open the bulkhead door, which is on a spring system. One long push on the remote unit unlocks and opens the bulkhead door. Two short pushes unlocks, but doesn’t open, the rear door.

Drivers in the center where the new technology is being tested are being told it should take six and a half minutes off their day. Not that management is counting or anything.