The two Toyota Proace Verso electric people carriers have reduced mileage and maintenance costs, as well as lower carbon emissions compared to diesel engines, contributing to the local authority’s environmental goals.

The vehicles are backed by funding from the Welsh Government Energy Service and are set to improve school transport methods across the community, as well as assisting in the council’s adult social care sector by providing transport for those enrolled in a local work opportunity scheme.

Whilst 20% of the council’s fleet already consists of zero emission vehicles, which remains ‘one of the highest figures in Wales’, the two new people carriers will help to advance the climate change and biodiversity efforts of local schools.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: ‘We are working very hard to reduce our fleet’s carbon footprint by replacing end of life fossil fuel vehicles when the opportunity arises with greener alternatives where it is appropriate for the service need.

‘These vehicles help us reduce running costs over the long term through maintenance and miles and will continue to reduce our emissions to help us tackle the climate and nature emergency declared in 2019.’

Sign up here to receive our free weekly news bulletin and quarterly e-book.