NHS Highland to add EVs to its vehicle fleet

NHS Highland has ordered five fully-electric cars and two further hybrids to its fleet of vehicles.

Following the introduction of five BMW i3 (Range Extender) electric cars and a number of Renault Kangoo Z.E. electric vans in the last 12 months, the health board has now placed an order for two Hyundai Ioniq hybrid cars and five Vauxhall Corsa electric vehicles.

The new electric vehicles will be deployed in the pool car fleet, resulting in a reduction on mileage expense claims for the use of non-company vehicles for business travel, as well as reducing the board’s carbon footprint.

Neil Stewart, head of procurement and logistics, said: “We look forward to taking delivery of the new vehicles which have an excellent range. The Vauxhall Corsa EV range is over 200 miles and the Hyundai Ioniq hybrids can travel in excess of 30 miles on electric and switch between petrol and electric automatically.

“The cars are funded through a government initiative called ‘Switched on Fleets’ which supports organisations that intend to replace fossil fuelled vehicles. We consider the cars to be a long-term investment which will make savings for the health board, not to mention the numerous environmental advantages of using electric vehicles. “Healthcare is a major cause of pollutants and there is a responsibility on us to reduce this. As a board, HNS Highland is committed to significantly reduce our carbon footprint. These vehicles will play a key role in helping us achieve that aim.”