Center Parcs began using electric vehicles on its fleet over five years ago, as part of plans to encourage a zero-emissions culture at its villages. Petrol-only vehicles are not allowed, diesels must meet Euro 4 emissions standards and electric vehicles are to be used wherever possible.

Its existing electric fleet, which comprises of mostly Aixam Mega MultiTrucks and three Modec box vans, was used for food and beverage delivery and the technical services and maintenance division. These will be replaced by the Kangoo Maxi Z.E., on the advice of outsourced fleet management company CRM.

Chris Allgood, CRM team manager at CLM, explained: ‘We have done this for several reasons, but durability, suitability for purpose and recharging time are all key factors. Also important is that the Kangoos use lithium ion batteries which can be recharged to full capacity in external conditions, while with the lead acid batteries of the previous models, we found they were affected by the cold weather and  could not be fully recharged in temperatures which dropped down to minus 10 degrees in winter.’

Each van will go through a conversion process before delivery, which includes fitting an eye wash station, fire extinguisher, bespoke racking, storage bins, a ladder roof rack and external swivel work lamp. For safety, they will also be fitted with an audible reversing beeper and parking sensors. The order is the UK’s largest for the electric Kangoo, which launched earlier this year.

Center Parcs UK project manager – operations, Mike Henderson, said: ‘We have always been early adopters of ‘green’ technology and many valuable lessons have been learnt over the past five years which serves to give us more knowledge and confidence that the Renault Kangoo Z.E. and Honda Insight vehicles will help to drive our emissions down even further. 

‘Our first phase of replacements is an exciting time for us as we introduce the latest technology in electric vehicles and we look forward to working with CLM as we formulate our fleet strategy for the future which will include our fifth and latest village, Woburn Forest in Bedfordshire.'