Electric vans helping Nelson City Council reduce its carbon footprint

Two Nissan e-NV200 vans are helping the Nelson City Council save on fuel costs and reduce its carbon footprint.

“Reducing transport emissions is one way for the council to cut down its carbon footprint,” council environmental management group manager Clare Barton says.

Introducing a Nissan Leaf in 2017 saved the Horizons Regional Council $4000 in operating costs and reduced carbon emissions by six tonnes annually.

The two Nissan 24kWh vans are being used by the council’s environmental team and building inspectors.

The council has also signed up to the Certified Emissions Measurement and Reduction Scheme (CEMARS), so it can measure and then reduce its carbon emissions.

In use from August 7, the vans average about 25km daily, mainly around Nelson’s urban areas.

These vehicles can be given a quick 80% charge in 30 minutes or a normal full charge in eight to 12 hours.

Two chargers were installed in the council’s vehicle compound with power upgraded to two-phase to accommodate the Neuton EV charger 16/32-amp compatible system.

These chargers are exclusive to the council’s fleet – the public can use a rapid charger a kilometre away at Millers Acre.

The average monthly electricity bill for each van is expected to be about $45.

Another electric light sedan such as a Nissan Leaf is being considered by the council for addition to its pool cars.

The vans and chargers were purchased through Red Stag LMVD in Blenheim.