EAST Midlands Electricity, is replacing its Ford Transit van fleet with the new Vauxhall Movano. The deal will see the utility switch to a mainly Vauxhall-badged commercial fleet over the next two years, as more than 100 Movanos join the fleet, along with Astravans and Corsavans.

They will be operated on a five-year/100,000-mile replacement cycle, under a contract hire deal with Lex Transfleet. The decision to switch to long-wheelbase, hi-roof Movanos for the bulk of its fleet needs came after East Midlands Electricity undertook an evaluation programme, finally coming down to a choice of three manufacturers.

The Movanos will tow mini-diggers and portable generators as part of their main work duties and have been fitted with bespoke racking systems, supplied by racking specialist Bott.

More than 100 Movanos will be supplied, although the number could grow as the business expands. The first 50 are currently being delivered, along with the first eight Astravans and four Corsavans. The vans form part of a 650-vehicle fleet operated by East Midlands Electricity, of which 350 are cars and 300 light commercials.

The cars are supplied under a dual badged arrangement by Vauxhall and Toyota, while the commercial fleet also has Land Rover and Mercedes vehicles.