The City of London Corporation is adding three LDV EV80 electric vans to its fleet in line with its goal of being the first authority to run a fully zero-emission fleet.

The City of London Corporation is deploying three LDV EV80 electric vans

The ULEZ-compliant vehicles will help the City of London Corporation deliver some of its key services across London with the help of their 120-mile range. Tasks will include servicing 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.

The vehicles are fitted with a Brigade Quiet Vehicle Sounder and white noise reversing rear for enhanced pedestrian and cyclist safety, while drivers will be provided with full training by the team at Heathrow LDV.

The announcement follows the recent publication of a draft 25-year strategy by the City of London Corporation which aims to address air quality, congestion and road safety within the Square Mile and would see it champion Britain’s first large-scale Zero Emission Zone to cover central London and, in the interim, introduce local zero emission zones covering the Eastern City Cluster and Barbican and Golden Lane.

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, added: “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 city councils. We are thrilled to be able to supply the City of London Corporation with our EV80s, helping to drive the agenda for greener motoring for London.”