Environment Agency commits to low carbon fleet policy

Date: Friday, March 15, 2013

The Environment Agency (EA) has confirmed its on-going commitment to low carbon commercial vehicles despite the difficulties presented in cutting emissions by the high proportion of 4x4s on its fleet.

The EA commissioned Cenex (Centre of Excellence for low carbon vehicle technologies) to review the environmental and cost performance of its fleet and to suggest ways for further improvement.

Although Cenex found only limited options available for carbon reduction within the 4x4 and car derived van vehicle groups, it said other LCV groups showed good potential for carbon and cost savings.

Cenex recommended the purchase of small electric panel vans under a battery leasing model agreement and large panel van diesel hybrid vehicles to deliver financial and carbon reduction benefits.

In addition, Cenex highlighted the positive impact that continuing to operate on biodiesel would have had on the EA fleet’s total cost of ownership and emissions.

“Gaining independent support and results verification by Cenex has given us the validation we were seeking to continue using hybrid vehicles and biodiesel within our fleet” said Ian Jutson, National Fleet Services Manager, at the EA. “It has provided a useful insight into which EV vehicles would best fit our operational needs, and has confirmed our fleet strategy going forward.”

What Van? Britain's biggest and best van buyers' guide