Driving towards a sustainable future
Zero emission vehicle funding accessible to the emergency services sector
Posted by Aimee Wagstaff on Jun 13, 2023
In a significant stride towards a more sustainable future, the emergency services sector is set to undergo a transformative change with the introduction of greener, zero-emission vehicles.
The Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), which supports the UK Government to deliver its aspiration for net-zero road transport, has announced that £77 million of funding will be available for projects dedicated to developing clean transport technologies, the stage is now set for a greener and more efficient emergency response system. This initiative aims to not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance the effectiveness and reliability of life-saving services.
How will these investments benefit the emergency services sector?
Enhanced Environmental Sustainability:
The infusion of £77 million in funding marks a remarkable shift towards greener practices within the emergency services sector. This investment will fuel the development and deployment of zero-emission vehicles that run on clean energy sources, significantly reducing harmful emissions such as carbon dioxide and pollutants. According to an article on www.gov.uk, the annual mortality of human-made air pollution in the UK is roughly equivalent to between 28,000 and 36,000 deaths every year. By adopting these eco-friendly alternatives, emergency service providers will play a vital role in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and improving air quality in the communities they serve.
Improved Operational Efficiency:
One of the initiatives supported by the APC investment project, which assists the UK Government in its goal of achieving net-zero emissions in the transportation sector, is the HYER POWER project. This project aims to develop a hydrogen fuel-cell range extender specifically designed for specialised electric vehicles used in demanding roles like fire engines and ambulances. This project is among the seven collaborative endeavours in the UK receiving combined government and industry support and will allow these vehicles to run without the need for lengthy recharging times out of service.
Cost Savings and Sustainability:
While the initial investment may be substantial, the long-term benefits of zero emission vehicles are promising. Electric vehicles (EVs) and other clean transport have lower fuel and maintenance costs compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles. With reduced reliance on fossil fuels and lower maintenance requirements, emergency services organisations can save significant sums in the long run.
Community Engagement and Trust:
The adoption of zero emission vehicles demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and community wellbeing. By embracing sustainable practices, emergency services organisations can enhance their public image, foster community engagement, and instil confidence and trust among the residents they serve. These initiatives send a powerful message that emergency services are not only committed to saving lives but also to protecting the planet for future generations.
We provide fleet services to the public sector, if you would like to get in touch about how our fleet team can support with your emergency vehicle requirements, don’t hesitate to contact us today at procurementservices@csltd.org.uk