Whistl is trialling the first electric Renault Trucks Master ZE to be licenced on UK roads.
The all-electric 3.1 tonne van has a range of around 100 miles and is being trialled in Belfast by Whistl on day-to-day operations, collecting business mail and parcels.
The move ties in with Whistl's intention to reduce emissions across its 400-strong fleet of vans and HGVs and deliver a sustainable transport strategy.
Phil Brown, depot manager at Belfast said: “The vehicle is a revelation, and the drivers love it. It is quiet yet the acceleration is immediate and to drive it is no different to a normal van. The emissions are zero and the anticipated costs of running it are so much lower than traditional diesel.”
Baz Barrett, national fleet and compliance manager added: “It is vital that we continue to look at new technologies and adapt our fleet in this way. We already have an excellent relationship with BRS/Renault Trucks and so when we knew this 100% electric vehicle was coming to market, we wanted to see how we could integrate it into our fleet in core urban areas. From the feedback so far, it works really well and there is great scope to introduce it into our fleet now to enable us to reduce our carbon and NOx footprint.”
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Graham Neagus, head of LCV on behalf of BRS and Renault, said: "Renault Trucks and BRS are delighted to be working with Whistl to help them enter the world of electromobility with the new Renault Trucks Master ZE.
“This vehicle is available in a wide range of styles and is ideal for parcel deliveries carrying over 1000kgs payload and able to cover 100 miles per charge and all with zero emissions.
“Our clients in cities across Europe are placing orders now for the Master ZE which is one of three full electric products from Renault Trucks, including both 16 and 26 tonne rigid HGVs.”
