ESB Networks Ltd has just taken delivery of part of the single largest order of electric vehicles ever placed in Ireland. Electric Vehicles Ireland, based in Tullamore supplied the vehicles.

A mixture of Smith Edison vans, based on the Ford Transit panel van and Smith Newton 10 tonne trucks were ordered early this year and delivery of some of the vans took place just now.

These zero emission vehicles will be used in Dublin, Cork, Dundalk, Waterford and Portlaoise and are testament to ESB Networks commitment of carbon footprint reduction. ESB Networks have purchased Smith Edison every year since 2008 inclusive. ESB Networks currently have about 50 electric vehicles in their 2700 vehicle fleet.

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"These vans are doing the exact same work that their diesel equivalents can do in urban areas," according to Mr. John Seale, Investment Manager of ESB Networks Fleet & Equipment.

The vans are fitted with a 90kw motor and the very latest Lithium-Ion batteries manufactured by Valence. Top speed is limited to 85 Km/h for urban use and a range of up to 160 Kms is achievable on a single charge. The cost of charging the batteries is as low as €3.00.

(CD)