ABP has welcomed an additional 12 new electric vehicles to its fleet at the Port of Southampton so that electric vehicles now make up the majority of its fleet.
Forging ahead with its commitments to improve air quality across the port, there are now 28 ABP zero emission vehicles operating around the port.
These new vehicles are intended for staff travel around the port and replace the older diesel-fuelled cars and vans. The new vehicles are being introduced to the ABP fleet where hybrid or electric alternatives are available.
With the removal of 14 older diesel vehicles from its fleet, ABP will be eliminating 15 tonnes of carbon emissions per year, as the new vehicles will be powered using renewable energy.
The electric vehicle replacement scheme is one of the priorities set out in ABP’s air quality strategy – Cleaner Air for Southampton – published last year.
To support the increase of electric vehicles in the fleet, ABP has also installed additional charging bays at its offices in Southampton which are available for staff and visitor use bringing the total number of charging points on the port to more than 70. This includes charging points in the short stay cruise passenger car parks.
The company has committed to run only electric or hybrid vehicles by the end of 2020 where such alternatives to diesel are available. Currently, not all port-use vehicles have zero emission replacements and ABP is working with a manufacturer to develop viable alternatives.
ABP Regional Director for Southampton Alastair Welch said: “Increasing our electric vehicle fleet is a key strand of our air quality strategy over the next few years.
“We know that air quality in the city has been steadily improving and we are committed to working with the port community and the city council to accelerate these improvements and do our bit to deliver even cleaner air.”
Source: Associated British Ports website