Northern Ireland Electricity Networks adds 28 Crafter vans to fleet

Northern Ireland Electricity Networks has renewed its partnership with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, adding 28 Crafter panel vans to its fleet.

NIE Networks is responsible for managing 47,000 kilometres of overhead and underground cables that deliver electricity to 850,000 homes and businesses across Northern Ireland.

As part of its regular replacement vehicle programme, the fleet, which currently comprises over 400 vehicles, has been boosted by the additional 28 new Crafter models.

The company opted for the Crafter CR35 MWB panel van due to its ample load space, rear-wheel drive functionality to help access remote areas, and ability for bespoke conversion. Each Crafter will be equipped with specialist racking solutions, depending on purpose and equipment carried.

The new vehicles will be used within the connections side of the business, to help join new customers to the electricity network or alter existing connections for homes and businesses across the country.

David Corry, supply chain and fleet manager, NIE Networks, said: “As the network company, we have a responsibility to ensure homes and businesses across Northern Ireland have a reliable electricity supply. It was the reliability and the first-rate aftersales service offered by Volkswagen which helped to make it an easy decision when it came to replacing vehicles on the fleet. We have had excellent experience in the past with Volkswagen, and we’re pleased to continue the relationship.”