Revenue Purchase First Electric Delivery-van
The Revenue Commissioners have taken delivery of an electric van as part of a scheme which aims to replace the existing diesel van fleet. The van will be used in Dublin city to deliver internal post and supplies and is the first of its kind to be purchased by a central Government Department or Office.
The 'Verde' is assembled in China but designed in Ireland and marketed by two Irish companies, including Gerry Caffrey Motors Ltd., Terenure, Dublin. It cost €20,900. Although costing more than a diesel counterpart the financial advantage of an electric van is in its very economical running costs. An electric charge costing 60 cent will drive the van for over 100 kilometres. Maintenance costs are expected to be a fraction of conventional vehicles and the engine is expected to run for a million kilometres.
Speaking at the handover Revenue Chairman Josephine Feehily said: "I am delighted to take delivery of this exciting new vehicle which promises to deliver value for money and benefit the environment. Energy conservation and reducing one's carbon footprint are nowadays a national and global requirement. Revenue is committed to playing its part and we have an active 'green' programme."
Alan Turner, Gerry Caffrey Motors said: "We are confident that this move by Revenue will encourage others to follow. There is more to this than just being seen to be green. It is a new way of thinking, it is about saving the environment. The people who buy into change are the ones who will make the difference."
[Ends 24/09/09]