Government fleet takes delivery of 1,000th electric vehicle

Defra Group Fleet Services (DGFS) has delivered its 1,000th electric vehicle (EV) to the Environment Agency, marking a milestone in its decarbonisation journey.  

Fleet emissions make up a significant portion (about 9%) of the Environment Agency’s corporate emissions, so making positive changes in fleet is crucial.

The Environment Agency aims to reduce their total fleet emissions by at least 30% by 2025 and show clearly how they can reach a 45% reduction by 2030.

Dale Eynon, director of Defra Group Fleet Services, who outlined his carbon-cutting fleet strategy to Fleet News last year, said: “Our commitment to running the most sustainable, efficient and cost-effective fleet gets stronger every year as we take on the challenge of the climate crisis.

“Ensuring our operational field teams can ‘walk the walk’ in terms of emission reductions is vital as they protect people and wildlife from the ever-increasing impacts of our climate.”

DGFS manages a wide range of fleet assets, including commercial vehicles, plant machinery, boats, agricultural and construction equipment for the Environment Agency.

It also provides fleet assets for Defra Partner organisations including Animal Plant Health Agency and Natural England.

The 1,000th EV – a new Vauxhall Combo E van – was delivered to the Environment Agency’s Spalding depot.