Electric taxis trialled in Coventry
The iconic Coventry based LEVC Taxi and the 100% Zero Emission Nissan Dynamo are both being offered for trial.
Electric taxis are now available for trial as part of the Council’s ‘Electric Fleet First’ project.
Cllr O’Boyle who is Cabinet Member for Jobs and Regeneration said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the taxi trade to experience all the benefits that electric vehicles have to offer.
“The electric fleet first trial is about giving local businesses the opportunity to understand more about the long-term benefits of switching to an electric vehicle for their business.”
The Nissan Leaf will be part of the trial so that the private hire trade can also try-out electric vehicles for themselves.
Cllr O’Boyle added: “With the national lockdowns affecting our trade across the city we want to support our drivers and provide as much incentive as possible to take part in the green movement.”
There will be no charges for hire or for insurance, the only cost will be when customers are charging the vehicle during the trial period.
Cllr Hetherton, who is Cabinet Member for City Services, said: “I’m delighted that the Council is operating this scheme. We are already increasing our own council fleet of electric bin lorries and other vehicles and we want to show local businesses what can be achieved when we adapt to future sustainable transport.
“We have nine fleet vehicles available for taxi drivers and a further 70 vans and cars for businesses so I’d also encourage local businesses to get in touch.”
“We would like to express our thanks to Highways England for funding this project. Our taxi trade can help make Coventry greener by lowering carbon emissions across the city.”
The Electric Fleet First is a try-before-you-buy scheme allows people to try out a vehicle for up to two months.