Translink has taken a major step towards reducing its carbon footprint by striking a deal with Shelbourne Motors to add 100% electric Renault Zoe and Kangoo vans to its fleet of support vehicles.
The family-owned vehicle retailer has provided Translink with the electric vans as a key part of Translink’s Net Zero Emissions Strategy aimed to create cleaner and greener transport to positively impact the climate emergency and air quality.
The new Renault ZOE was recently voted ‘Best Small Electric Car For Value’ at the 2021 What Car? Car of the Year Awards. It boasts a driving range of up to 245 miles.
The Renault Kangoo Z.E van has a driving range of up to 124 miles from a single charge and can be fully recharged in six hours.
Paul Ward, director of Shelbourne Motors, said: “Translink is leading the way towards a greener, more sustainable era for public transport in Northern Ireland and the Renault Kangoo Z.E Van and Renault ZOE will play an integral role in their drive towards zero emissions, as well as providing day-to-day functional support at ultra-low running costs.”
Ian Campbell, director of service operations with Translink, said: “We have some of the most fuel efficient and environmentally friendly buses in the region and were delighted to recently introduce new hydrogen double deck buses into service in Belfast – a first in Ireland and announced an order for 100 further zero emission hydrogen and battery electric buses that will enter service in 2022. These vehicles when introduced, will further reduce our overall greenhouse gas emissions, and improve air quality along key routes.
“We are also taking steps to minimise the environmental impact of our day-to-day support operations and this move in conjunction with Shelbourne Motors, will be a further step in our plans to help reduce our carbon footprint.”
