Amey has announced a trial of two electric vehicles across its Barnsley Schools Facilities Management operations, to gauge requirements for transitioning from fossil to electric power fuel for its fleet of maintenance vehicles.

Working in partnership with Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions, Amey is continuing to reduce carbon emissions by adopting alternative fuel vehicles across its fleet.

With a steer from government and other entities to reduce and ban the sale of certain types of fossil fuel vehicles by 2030, this timely trial will help Amey and Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions understand what the capabilities are of current electric vehicle offerings in the light commercial vehicle market and how they would suit the variety and service delivery demands of the contract Amey delivers.

The trial run of the two Vauxhall eVivaros electric vehicles, used across their Barnsley Schools contract will determine the specific requirements.

Ian Warren, Account Manager for Barnsley Schools, said: "Trialling the use of electric vehicles will help us understand any challenges our operational teams could face in the adoption of an electric powered fleet. We can then plan for this and ensure we have the necessary solutions in place that facilitate the continued operational effectiveness for the schools we maintain.

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"The benefits of using electric and cleaner alternate fuels are clear. Ensuring we play our part and proactively take steps towards reducing carbon emission to improve the air quality in and around the communities our vehicles operate in, is a responsibility we take seriously."

The trial, which is due to last for six months will also help Amey and the contract understand how in the future electric vehicles could be charged and what further infrastructure may be needed to ensure its fleet is fully functioning.

Jon Lawes, Managing Director for Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions, said: "Through our expertise and experience in helping complex fleets cost effectively transition to electric vehicles in line with their operational requirements, this trial will support Amey’s zero emissions fleet strategy.

"With a long-established relationship and aligned sustainability ambitions through decarbonisation, we’re delighted to be working with one of the largest commercial fleet operators in the country as Amey continue to accelerate their switch to greener vehicles."

In 2020 Amey began working with the Carbon Trust to review its approach to carbon management, as well as establishing a Carbon and Climate Change Working Group to progress carbon-reduction activities and contribute to wider industry action and progress.

Amey has already removed all traditional internal combustion engine vehicles from its Company Car Choices List, offers Green Driver Training, increased its cycle to work limit to give employees access to electric bikes, and has transitioned its energy procurement to 100% renewable energy.