Openreach orders 279 electric Vauxhalls

Openreach is expanding its zero-emission fleet with an order for 270 fully electric Vauxhall Vivaro-e vans and nine Corsa-e cars.

With around 27,000 vehicles, Openreach operates one of the UK’s largest fleets, and has run diesel versions of the Vauxhall vans for the past 15 years.

The business is also trialling the Ford Transit Custom plug-in hybrid (PHEV) as it expands its low-emission fleet.

Clive Selley, Openreach CEO, said: “Openreach is leading the charge on the transition to electric vehicles.  Our order today is an important first step as we begin to move our fleet, the second largest commercial fleet in the UK, to being fully electric.”

Chris Mullings, operating licence and vehicle compliance manager, at Openreach, added: “Although, the Corsa-e is a compact car, it is surprisingly roomy, incredibly easy to drive and comfortable on both short and long journeys. The range is very good and with its DC charging capability it provides additional rapid charging options if ever needed.”

This latest deal for Vauxhall follows an order for 1,000 electric vans from British Gas.

The Vauxhall Vivaro-e is available with two battery options, with the 50kW unit achieving 143-miles of range under WLTP testing, while the 75kW unit extends the operational range to 205 miles.

Supporting 100kW rapid charging, an 80% takes 30 and 45 minutes respectively. The zero-emissions Vivaro-e also comes with a payload of up to 1,226kg and can tow up to 1,000kg. 

The Vauxhall Corsa-e features a 50kWh battery and provides a zero-emissions range of up to 209 miles from a single charge. Up to 100kW rapid charging technology allowis for an 80% charge in as little as 30 minutes.

James Taylor, general sales director at Vauxhall, said: “Our electric vehicles help achieve significant cost savings from day one, and equally as important have no compromise in capability. Having one of the UK’s largest fleet operators choosing our electric vehicles shows just how confident they are in our product. We are very happy to continue our partnership with Openreach, transforming their nationwide fleet with our new electric vehicles.”