Vertellus helps floor firm find balance with diesel/EV package

It includes a Renault Trucks D16 E-Tech rigid, secured on a five-year contract hire agreement following a trial through Vertellus’ EV Discovery Programme, alongside two Renault Trucks D16 diesel rigids and two Renault Trucks Master E-Tech vans.

The fleet is further complemented by an existing Renault Trucks D16 diesel rigid operated by John Palmer Carpets.

Volante operates a fleet of HGVs and LCVs delivering carpets, carpet tiles, vinyl flooring, adhesives, underlays and accessories to customers across the UK from its Chessington base.

Volante said it could maintain its operational flexibility while also gaining hands-on experience with electric vehicle technology by taking a dual energy approach.

Ricardo Calaca, GM sales, operations and distribution at Volante, said: “When we first engaged with Vertellus, our priority was finding the right fleet solution for our business.

“The EV Discovery Programme gave us an opportunity to understand how electric vehicles could work within our operation, but just as importantly it helped us evaluate our wider fleet requirements.

“Our diesel vehicles continue to provide the flexibility and capability our operation depends on every day, while the electric vehicles allow us to explore lower-carbon transport solutions in areas where they make operational sense.”

Vertellus MD Rhian Burrell added: “Many operators are still working out what their future fleet strategy looks like.

“The reality is that for most businesses, it won’t be a choice between diesel or electric overnight.

“It will be about finding the right balance based on operational requirements.”