National Highways has placed a new order for fully electric cars and vans from Toyota to support its decarbonisation programme.
The organisation has ordered 18 Proace Electric medium-duty vans and a further 40 bZ4X SUVs for its fleet.
The agreement follows on from the rollout of 50 Toyota bZ4X electric SUVs in 2024.
The latest consignment of EVs will bolster National Highways’ commitment to make its corporate emissions net zero by 2030. A key goal is for all of its non-traffic officer light vehicles to be electric by 2027.
The Proace Electric vans will be used by its specialist structures inspectors who play an essential part in keeping roads safe and open. The vans come with a Smart Cargo system that extends the load area, giving extra room for longer items to be carried – such as the measuring poles used by the National Highways teams. Interior racking can be fitted to safely transport the teams’ safety items, all-weather equipment and test samples.
Andy Butterfield, director of operational services at National Highways, said: “Our operations run 24/7 to keep roads safe, well-maintained and free-flowing – helping people reach their destinations safely and on time. These new vehicles will support that round-the-clock service, particularly for asset inspectors keeping vital infrastructure in check. Just as importantly, they represent a major step in cutting our carbon footprint.”
Neil Broad, general manager One Toyota Fleet Services, said: “It is rewarding to partner again with National Highways and support their work across the country maintaining safety of our road network. As more businesses look to make the switch to electric vehicles, we have a team able to provide guidance and support along with one of the largest ranges of commercial vehicles available in the UK market.”
