According to a report presented to members, the council has no option to extend the leases on its existing vehicles beyond September 2027, prompting the need for large-scale renewal.

Councillors have agreed to procure new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles rather than switch to electric models, citing the ‘financial pressures’ associated with electrification, including higher upfront costs and charging-infrastructure requirements.

The council’s fleet currently comprises 388 vehicles in total. Of the 340 due to be replaced, 247 are leased and 93 are owned outright.

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