Specialist security company Orbis Protect has taken delivery of the first 33 vehicles in a 210-vehicle fleet deal with Holman.
The business is looking to switch its entire fleet to lower-emission alternatives by early next year, cutting both emissions and running costs.
The first tranche of 33 new vehicles comprises Ford Transits, supplied on three-year/90,000-mile finance lease agreements and fitted with Lightfoot telematics systems to encourage eco-friendly driving.
But it’s also trialling electric vehicles in the fleet where payloads and routes allow.
The solus Ford supply contract will also see Orbis take advantage of the full suite of Holman solutions, including fleet management, inventory management, electric vehicle consultancy and de-fleet services.
Paul Stubbs, operations director at Orbis Protect, said: “We are delighted to take delivery of our initial 33 vehicles. These new low-emissions vehicles, all fitted with innovative Lightfoot systems, support our commitment to environmental responsibility and ensure that our drivers are empowered and educated to drive in a safe and more eco-friendly manner.”
As well as switching to lower-emission models, Orbis is using driver education to enhance savings and ensure safe and responsible driving.
Its adoption of the Lightfoot telematics system has already brought significant benefits, including an 18.2% average fuel saving per vehicle thanks to 97% of its drivers achieving ‘elite’ status in eco-driving. Over the whole three-year period, the company estimates it will save approximately 1,232 tonnes of CO2. Further benefits from the trial include a 100% reduction in dangerous driving incidents.
Rory Mackinnon, sales director at Holman, said: “We’re pleased to be helping Orbis Protect make significant changes to its fleet.
“Our in-house consultancy services give businesses confidence to implement wholesale changes to their business, knowing that the changes will provide significant operational and environmental savings.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the results of the EV trials, too, as this will obviously play a huge part in fleet development in coming years.”
