Two new electric vans are joining Epping Forest District Council’s fleet as it acts to reduce its carbon footprint.

One vehicle is already on the road providing front line services for residents and the second is due to make an appearance in July.

After trialling three electric vans last summer, fleet manager Arvin Kane said the more environmentally friendly models were chosen due to their longer range, weight capacity and support from Nissan UK.

Cllr Nigel Avey, cabinet member for contracts and technical services, said: “We will put these vehicles to the test, ensuring that they can fulfil the requirements of our day-to-day operations, before potentially looking at them as a replacement for the ageing diesel fleet.”

Using a mains 13-amp plug to charge, the vans can travel about 140 miles on a full battery.

The cost of fuelling one costs just £300 per 10,000 miles, compared to the diesel equivalent of about £1,500.

Cllr Avey added: “We currently have a vehicle mechanic training on electric and hybrid motor vehicles, so we are ready for the change to fleet vehicles and hopefully service areas currently using diesel vans will buy into the idea.”

“Epping Forest District Council is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its vehicle fleet operations and this marks the beginning of our journey to reduce vehicle exhaust emissions.”