The EV80, which is manufactured by the largest automotive company in China, SAIC Maxus, and distributed in the London area by Heathrow LDV, will help the City Corporation deliver of some of its key services across London. The vehicles will service the Barbican Library in the Square Mile, the City of London Cemetery and Crematorium in Manor Park and the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre at Heathrow Airport.
According to the City of London Corporation the EV80 is the first fully electric vehicle launched as part of Heathrow LDV’s range of commercial vehicles. It boasts a 120-mile range on a single charge and, thanks to its high-capacity lithium battery, can be fully charged in less than 90 minutes. The vehicles, which are Ultra Low Emission Zone compliant and designed for urban driving, are already being used by delivery and utility companies, together with selected city councils across the country.
Jeremy Simons, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Environmental Services Committee, said: “We all have an important role to play in reducing emissions from our vehicles. Given our commitment to a clean fleet, selecting a pure electric vehicle was an easy decision for us. These vehicles are the right fit in terms of environmental credentials and specifications, with exceptional range from a single charge. Nobody should have to breathe in dirty air, and we will continue to take steps to ensure that we are reducing emissions from our fleet.”
Mark Barrett, General Manager of LDV UK & Ireland, said: “Electric-powered vehicles are fast becoming the new norm and more and more fleet buyers and van drivers are moving from fuel-dependent engines to hybrids and pure-electric models. Such a move is an investment in the future of a fleet and the future of the planet, and there has never been a better time to make the change to emission-free fleets. EVs are not just the preserve of large companies; because they are so efficient across the lifespan of the vehicle, they are suitable for companies of all sizes – including libraries. We are thrilled to be able to supply the City of London Corporation with an EV80, helping to drive the agenda for greener motoring for London.”
The vehicles are fitted with an award-winning Brigade Quiet Vehicle Sounder and white noise reversing rear for enhanced pedestrian and cyclist safety. Full driver training will be provided to City Corporation staff by the team at Heathrow LDV.
In April this year the City of London Corporation awarded a pioneering new tech-driven waste collection, street cleansing and ancillary services contract to Veolia – covering the Square Mile. As part of the contract, the City Corporation aims to become the first authority in the UK to run a fully electric fleet of Refuse Collection Vehicles.
