Hybrid van subsidy now open to housing associations05 September 2012

Housing Associations can now buy low-carbon, hybrid LCVs for the same price as a standard diesel vehicle, thanks to an extension to the government's Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Programme (LCVPP) initiative.

The Department for Transport is funding the difference between a standard Ford Transit and the hybrid equivalent – and offer hitherto reserved for public sector organisations such as central and local government bodies.

Martin Kadhim, business development director at Ashwoods Automotive, whose Hybrid Transit is the only DfT-approved vehicle in the programme, says: "This is a unique opportunity for the social housing sector to cut fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions."

And he adds: "Light commercial vehicles play an important role within any housing association. This is an opportunity to procure a proven environmental technology that delivers a real return on investment."

The Ashwoods Hybrid Transit is fitted with an award-winning hybrid system that captures wasted energy and uses it to help the engine burn less fuel. It is validated as reducing diesel consumption by up to 25%.

The van requires no charging, plugging in. It is available as a chassis cab, minibus or panel van. Under the LCVPP scheme, DfT provides a subsidy of more than £3,400 per vehicle.

DfT is only providing subsidies for the first 500 Ashwoods vehicles ordered, and all orders must be received by March 2013.

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Ashwoods Electric Motors Ltd

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