Fire service give green light to first fully electric response car
We’ve welcomed the first fully electric response car to our fleet as part of our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.
The vehicle, which has blue light capability, will be used by one of our fire officers who is sent to incidents to support our firefighters.
The Kia EV6 was commissioned by our Joint Emergency Transport Services (JETS) and represents a further step forward in us meeting our aim of decarbonisation in response to our environmental and sustainability strategy.
The vehicle has undergone a significant and rigorous testing programme by the Metropolitan Police to ensure it is suitable to be used as a response vehicle. Analysis was also carried out on the range of the vehicle before charging is needed, along with how it responds in inclement weather.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Glynn Luznyj, said: “Our service has committed to becoming more environmentally sustainable and whilst we have a number of hybrid electric and petrol vehicles currently in service, this is the first full electric vehicle for us.
“I know how rigorous the commissioning process is for our emergency vehicles, so I have every confidence that the new vehicle will be more than capable of responding effectively to our communities when they are in need, whilst at the same time demonstrating value for money and having a positive impact on our environmental goals.”
It comes as JETS are also working to introduce Ultra Low Emissions Vehicles (ULEV) to the fleet. This vehicle builds upon this work and should be the first of many more to enter service in the near future.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Ben Adams, said: "There are environmental benefits and potential fuel cost savings from using fully electric vehicles, but it is essential that they meet the rigorous operational requirements of our Fire & Rescue Service.
“This is an opportunity to better understand how electric vehicles can support staff and firefighters to keep us safe."
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