Eco Transit vans save council cash and CO220 June 2011

North Ayrshire Council has purchased a fleet of seven new eco-friendly vans, making its one of the largest hybrid van fleets in Scotland.

The council bought the Hybrid Transits from Ashwoods Automotive – standard Ford vans, but fitted with Ashwoods' hybrid drive, and replacing a fleet of diesel-powered vehicles used by the organisation's Building Services.

Councillor Tom Barr, portfolio holder for the environment, says that, at a time of increasing awareness of environmental issues, the hybrid vans deliver fuel reductions of up to 20%, reducing carbon emissions and saving around £700 a year per vehicle.

"It is important to remember that the benefits of energy efficiency are twofold," explains Barr. "Not only do we ensure that we are doing our best to save the environment from the effects of carbon emissions – we are saving money while doing so. This is especially important at a time when finances are tight."

Barr also says that, if the new eco vans prove a success, they could be extended across the council's transport fleet.

North Ayrshire's hybrids were part funded by Transport Scotland's Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Support Scheme (LCVPSS), which enables public sector bodies to purchase electric and hybrid vehicles for operational trials.

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Ashwoods Electric Motors Ltd
Ford Motor Co Ltd

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