As part of the Council’s “Electric Fleet First” initiative, electric taxis are now available for testing.
Cllrs Patricia Hetherton and Jim O’Boyle went to Whitley Depot this week to see the hybrid cars for themselves.
The LEVC Taxi, which originated in Coventry, and the Nissan Dynamo, which is 100 percent zero-emission, are also available for test drives.
“This is a great chance for the taxi trade to witness all of the opportunities that electric cars have to offer,” said Cllr O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs and Regeneration.
“The aim of the electric fleet first trial is to provide local companies with the ability to learn more about the long-term advantages of converting to an electric vehicle for their operations.”
The Nissan Leaf will be part of the trial, allowing the private hire industry to have a firsthand look at electric cars.
“With the nationwide lockdowns impacting our trade around the region, we want to help our drivers and have as much opportunity to participate in the green movement as possible,” Cllr O’Boyle said.
The trial is completely free. The only fee would come when consumers charge the car during the introductory period; there will be no costs for hire or insurance.
“I’m pleased that the Council is running this scheme,” said Cllr Hetherton, who is also the Cabinet Member for City Services.
We’re now growing the number of electric bin lorries and other cars in our own council fleet, and we want to show local companies what can be done as we transition to future sustainable transportation.
“We have nine taxi fleet vehicles available, as well as 70 vans and cars for companies, so I’d invite local businesses to get in touch.”
“We would like to thank Highways England for their help in financing this initiative. Our taxi industry will help Coventry become more environmentally sustainable by reducing carbon emissions in the city.”
The Electric Fleet First service requires users to test drive a car for up to two months before buying it.
Please visit https://www.coventry.gov.uk/electricfleet to express your participation in this free trial.
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