St Helens Borough Council Bolsters Fleet with New Electric and Hydrogen Vehicles

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St Helens Borough Council is leading the charge towards a greener future with the recent acquisition of over 30 new electric vehicles (EVs) and a cutting-edge hydrogen-powered electric refuse truck. This significant investment marks a pivotal moment in the council's commitment to reducing emissions and achieving net-zero targets by 2040.

The latest additions to the council's fleet include six Ford E-Transits, 23 Toyota Proace electric vans, and two kerbside electric recycling vehicles. These zero-emission vehicles represent a concerted effort to replace aging council vehicles with sustainable alternatives, aligning with a broader strategy to transition towards electric and low-emission transport solutions.

One of the standout features of this procurement is the inclusion of a hydrogen fuel cell electric refuse collection vehicle, meticulously crafted by renowned German manufacturer Faun Zoeller. This innovative addition underscores the council's dedication to exploring cutting-edge technologies in pursuit of environmental sustainability.

To support the integration of these new electric vehicles, St Helens Borough Council has installed 25 charge points across strategic locations. This infrastructure investment not only facilitates the charging process but also lays the groundwork for future expansion of electric vehicle adoption within the community.

Beyond the environmental benefits, the modernisation of the council's fleet is yielding tangible improvements in service resilience and efficiency. With reduced downtime for repairs and lower maintenance costs, the transition to electric and hydrogen vehicles is proving to be a wise investment in the long term. Many of the vehicles being replaced were well past their typical replacement cycle, leading to escalating maintenance expenses that are now being curtailed.

Councillor Andy Bowden, St Helens Borough Council’s cabinet member for environmental services and climate change, emphasised the broader impact of this replacement program. "This initiative not only modernises our fleet but also enhances service flexibility and efficiency," he stated. "By providing our workforce with access to modern and fit-for-purpose vehicles and equipment, we are poised to deliver services more effectively while significantly reducing maintenance costs."

Bowden reiterated the council's commitment to sustainable practices, stating, "By embracing electric and hydrogen vehicles, we are taking decisive steps towards a low-carbon fleet in a managed and strategic manner. This aligns closely with our ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, demonstrating our dedication to environmental stewardship and responsible governance."

The acquisition of these new electric and hydrogen vehicles represents a significant milestone in St Helens Borough Council's journey towards a greener and more sustainable future. By prioritising innovation and environmental responsibility, the council sets a commendable example for other communities striving to combat climate change and build resilient, eco-friendly infrastructure.

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