SPRINGFIELD Properties has introduced its first electric van into the fleet as part of the company’s bid to reduce its carbon footprint.
The van, which will be used by staff at the housebuilder’s kit factory in Elgin, is the first of its commercial vehicle fleet to be replaced with an electric model.
Springfield plans to phase out its diesel vehicles in favour of a fully electric fleet, estimating it will result in a Co2 saving of 5.2 tonnes per vehicle. The business said a ‘structured replacement programme’ will ensure the van fleet keeps apace with evolving technological advancements in electric vehicles.
A bank of new electric charging stations has been installed at Springfield’s offices in Larbert and Elgin, along with a duel charging station at the Elgin kit factory. There are also plans to install temporary mobile charging points across its construction sites.
Innes Smith, CEO at Springfield Properties, said, “We are excited to have welcomed the first electric van into Springfield Properties’ fleet. This is the first step towards implementing all-electric vehicles across the business as we continue our journey on improving our sustainability.
“In a further policy change we are also set to introduce zero emission electric company cars to staff, previously we only offered car allowances; it’s a move that has been received very positively among colleagues. It demonstrates Springfield’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
“There is no denying, businesses of all sizes and across every sector still have a way to go to reach the 2045 targets, but these are the types of positive changes and initiatives that will help us get there.”
