A new electric response vehicle is now on the streets of Wolverhampton, making sure vital services including meals on wheels deliveries, school transport and waste collections are kept moving.

The electric van has replaced a diesel-powered hire vehicle as part of the City of Wolverhampton Council’s fleet electrification programme and commitment to a greener city.

The vehicle has been adapted to include a scaled down mini workshop, fitted out with equipment and tools for roadside repairs across a range of council vehicles.

And to demonstrate the council’s commitment to LGBT+ rights and equality it has been decorated in rainbow colours.

In total, the council has introduced 42 zero emission vehicles and has installed 34 chargers in its depots.

Cllr Craig Collingswood, cabinet member for Environment and Climate Change, said: ‘Our fleet electrification programme is a key part of our work to becoming net zero by the end of 2028. This electric response vehicle is a really important addition as it will be on standby to support all vehicles that provide important council services.

Cllr Paula Brookfield, cabinet member for Governance and Equalities, said: ‘This is the second vehicle that the council has decorated in rainbow colours to show our city's support and commitment to LGBT+ rights and equality.

‘I am proud that our staff will be driving this rainbow van across Wolverhampton, making visible our commitment to being a fair, diverse and inclusive city.’

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