The world’s leading commercial electric vehicle manufacturer, Smith Electric Vehicles, has announced that it has received its first 100 zero-emission vans and trucks for the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

It is thought that the vehicles will replace older diesel vehicles and will result in an estimated reduction of 760,000kg in carbon dioxide exhaust emissions each year.

Kevin Harkin, sales director for Smith Electric Vehicles, explained: “There are tens of thousands of vans and trucks in Ireland that spend their entire working lives in congested urban areas.

“This stop-start environment is when the diesel engine is at its least efficient and most polluting, making a compelling argument for replacing these vehicles with our zero-emission products.”

Since its launch in early 2007, Smith Electric Vehicles has sold around 250 of its new technology vehicles to customers in the UK and Europe.

It expects to build capacity to 1,500 vehicles for this year.

James Cooper

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe