SFRS is the world’s fourth largest fire and rescue service. It will deploy the Zoe EVs through its uniformed staff, office employees and management team, in non-emergency situations, as general pool vehicles, to cover an average of 10,000 miles a year each. The new Renaults are the first pure electric cars in its fleet of nearly 1,800 vehicles. The Zoe proves that EVs can have a place in business and SFRS is committed to moving to an entirely electric fleet.
As replacements for conventionally fuelled hatchbacks, they will be based at strategic stations throughout Scotland, with SFRS installing up to six charging points at each site. Aided by the car’s flexible charging options, additional charging will also be carried out via ChargePlace Scotland, the nation’s government supported public EV charging network.
One of the benefits of the latest Zoe is its ‘real-world’ range of 186 miles. However, it also provides a comprehensive standard specification, total ease-of-use and strong residual values that contribute to their effectiveness. The cars will be used to engage with local communities and assist in education programmes. Introducing them has been a major step in the future direction of public body transport and they work on both practical and financial bases. The reduction in carbon footprint aids public acceptance.
SFRS drivers have been provided with pertinent training in the use of the cars and even those drivers who may not have had sufficient experience of driving automatic transmission vehicles (in fact, the Zoe does not have any gears at all) now feel happier in the electric Renaults. The exercise has worked so well that SFRS is looking to replace all of its pool cars with Renault Zoes, as well as evaluating the Renault Kangoo Z.E. with a view to introducing it to its compact van fleet.
Vincent Tourette, Managing Director of Renault UK, said: “The work performed by the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service is invaluable and we are delighted that they have called on the Renault Zoe to help them spread important, life-saving messages efficiently and commence its ambition to electrify its entire fleet. With the Zoes being deployed in many rural communities and by a whole variety of drivers, it is a fantastic illustration of how versatile and usable a car like Zoe can be.”
The savings continue after purchase too, the Zoe being exempt from Congestion and ULEZ charges, where they are increasingly applicable, plus road tax. Taking a broader view, company car drivers also enjoy the lowest BIK rates of 16 per cent. Ownership is easy, the fully automatic Zoe complementing its impressive range with a host of charging options, including rapid charging from 0-80% in just one hour and forty minutes, while also being relaxing and simple to drive.
