Openreach, which operates the UK’s second largest commercial van fleet, has deployed its 5,000th electric vehicle, hitting a major milestone in its plan to become carbon neutral by March 2031.

The 5,000 EVs are expected to save more than 10,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually – the equivalent of removing over 7,000 petrol cars from UK roads each year.

To mark the milestone, Openreach has unveiled a special 5,000 van design featuring its ‘Let’s Reach Zero’ branding and developed with Stewart Signs.

Work is also underway to add a further 2,000 EVs to its fleet by the end of March 2026, alongside ongoing investment in charging infrastructure.

The company has pledged to upgrade the vast majority of its 23,000-strong vehicle fleet to cut emissions, improve air quality and support the UK’s net zero goals.

The switch is a key part of Openreach’s ‘Let’s Reach Zero’ strategy which focuses on reducing carbon emissions, cutting waste and protecting nature.

Clive Selley, CEO of Openreach, said: “We know the impact our operations have, so seeing our 5,000th electric van on the road is a proud moment for everyone at Openreach. By continuing to upgrade our fleet, and by installing EV chargers in our engineers’ homes and our operational sites – we’re removing barriers to adoption, improving air quality, and supporting the communities we serve.”

To support its EV transition, Openreach is installing charging points at operational sites and engineers’ homes, enabling convenient overnight charging. So far, more than 2,500 chargers have been installed.

The company has also built a partnership with First Bus, so engineers can charge their vans at First Bus depots, taking pressure off public charging points and making life easier for those who live in flats.