Building on LeasePlan and Philips’ existing partnership, the Leaf will be the first fully-electric vehicle in the company’s fleet.  The car will be used as an onsite pool car, available to all employees with a license, for local journeys.  

Phillips is also installing a charging post at its UK head office in association with “easit”, a sustainable transport initiative. The post will operate as part of a reciprocal use agreement being pioneered by easit and leading employers across Surrey, Crawley and the Thames Valley.

Matt Dyer, Commercial director, LeasePlan said: ‘We are delighted to be supporting Philips in this sustainable initiative. This ground-breaking vehicle fits well with their – and our – commitment to greener fleet. This represents just one way in which LeasePlan is helping our customers to better understand the value of electric vehicles in commercial fleets.’

Jonathan Coles, HR director, Philips Healthcare added: ‘We are pleased to be leading the way in electric vehicle implementation in the Surrey area. As a company with a heritage in innovation, we are always keen to try the latest technologies. We will be interested to hear the thoughts of our employees about whether this is something the company will further embrace in the future.’

Mel Mehmet, chief executive, easit said: ‘Philips has been one of our most forward-thinking customers and it comes as no surprise that they are leading the way and increasing their alternative transport capabilities. We are now working with other companies across the region to expand this initiative.’

PHOTO: (from left) Jonathan Coles, HR director, Philips; Dawn Devonshire, account director, LeasePlan; Mel Mehmet, chief executive, easit; Nicolas Bedard, UK fleet manager, Philips