Five new electric cars have been added to the Humber marine pilots’ fleet.
Associated British Ports has made its latest green investment, cleaning up the one million miles a year travelled between quays at various points on the river between Goole and Grimsby.
And Volkswagen ID.3s have been selected, vehicles actually imported via the latter.
Read more: Port of Grimsby to progress green vessel infrastructure work after feasibility project success
They boast a 300 mile range, with a 180 mile charge completed in 30 minutes - more than enough to get to and from any location on the Energy Estuary.
Simon Bird, Humber regional director at ABP, said: “The Humber Marine Pilots are undertaking a lot of travel around our ports, and they needed a dependable electric vehicle and VW was our first choice. It’s a popular car with a strong performance record and excellent environmental credentials.
“Our ambition long term is to ensure we reduce emissions, and the Humber ports are leading the way in supporting sustainability and investing in green equipment.”
Pilots navigate vessels in from the Humber approaches before returning to base.
From giant cranes to forklifts, the port is cleaning up emissions - with electricity generated by some of the largest roof-top solar installations in the UK put to immediate use. Cooking oil is also in use, with hydrogen also being explored for heavier transport.
Multiple electric vehicle (EV) charging points have been installed across the Humber ports as part of a £150,000 investment at Hull Port House, Immingham Dock Office, and the Grimsby Marine Control Centre. Further EV points will be rolled out longer term.
As the trial of using electric vehicles continues, it is hoped another 10 electric cars will join the fleet soon, with a further 10 being added in 2024.
David Rae, sales manager at Volkswagen Financial Services Fleet, said: “Supporting organisations through their transition to electric vehicles is extremely important to us. We’re pleased to have been able to supply ABP with their ID.3 vehicles to help cut down their fleet emissions while enabling them to cover the miles they need to.
“We look forward to continuing to work with ABP as they continue on their journey to an electric fleet.”
