APC Manchester, part of The APC parcel delivery network, has unveiled the first of two electric vans to join its fleet.
These all-electric Ford E-Transit vans will be joined by six EV charging stations at its Trafford Park depot next month as the business looks to gradually replace its existing fleet with electric vehicles over the coming months.
To date, the business has undertaken several measures to improve energy efficiency at Trafford Park, including the installation of a new air heating system, and the introduction of LEDs throughout the warehouse and offices, replacing low-efficiency, high-pressure sodium lamps.
Skylights have also been also added into the warehouse, to provide a source of natural light, saving on energy.
Also, electricity is generated by 188 solar roof panels on APC Manchester’s warehouse, which provide enough energy to both power its entire Trafford Park site and supply excess electricity directly into Manchester’s grid.
As a result of these solar panels – angled to catch light at different hours of the day – APC Manchester is now able to operate off-grid most days, with a maximum generating capacity of 50kW.
On a bright day in September however, the business can expect to generate 131 kWh of power.
Quentin Abel, Managing Director of APC Manchester, said, “As a business we’ve always been determined to do the right thing; for our customers, our business and the environment.
“The launch of these EVs allows us to continue providing excellent service to customers in a more sustainable way, across the region.
“Our investment into EVs is just part of our continued commitment to making Manchester a green and clean place to live and work.”
