G4S Cash Solutions launches world’s first fully electric cash in transit vehicle
The pilot vehicle, which will operate in the Greater London area, is projected to save 4974kg of carbon emissions per year based on Mercedes Benz published figures and is the latest step in G4S’ ongoing commitment to reducing its environmental impact. The ground- breaking vehicle, developed in partnership with Allied Electric, combines the latest in battery technology and electronic management software together with a tried and tested production vehicle converted into a highly specialised cash in transit protected vehicle encompassing state-of-the-art security features.
Ken Niven, Divisional CEO, G4S Cash Solutions, commented: “I believe that this prototype may lead G4S into deploying more of these vehicles in city centres, harnessing the benefits of zero pollution and noise, while providing clear economic operating benefits.”
Powered entirely by Lithium-Ion batteries, propelling the vehicle produces no carbon, particulate or pollutants. The vehicle has a range of around 100 miles, significantly further than the longest route length it will be required to travel for G4S in between re-charging the batteries.
The vehicle also has a solar panel fitted in order to constantly provide a source of sustainable energy back to the battery while the vehicle is on the road. The photovoltaic module is incorporated into a panel on the roof of the cash delivery vehicle and will produce enough sustainable energy to power the vehicle’s ancillary electrical energy usage. These panels were first introduced to the UK fleet in 2010 after a lengthy trial.
Dave Armitage, Vehicle Design Manager, G4S Cash Solutions (UK), said: “This ground-breaking trial is the latest stage in our ongoing efforts to minimise our environmental impact. G4S has one of the largest vehicle fleets in the UK and we are determined to lead the way in making widespread use of low carbon technology a reality in fleet management in the UK and further afield. Electric power is up to seven times cheaper than the equivalent diesel vehicle and there are further cost benefits with road tax and congestion charge exemption in the capital, so in the longer term these vehicles may be able to cut costs as well as our carbon footprint.”
G4S is also carrying out assessments on alternative fuels, has introduced photovoltaic panels on 71 vehicles in 2010 and will add another 63 during the course of 2011 in order to further reduce its carbon footprint.
Solar companies to unite under re-launched Solar Trade Association
The two Trade Bodies representing solar energy in the UK are in the process of merging their memberships to form a 400 strong Association to champion the industry. Some detail of the arrangements are still being worked out, but the plans will result in the re-launching of the Solar Trade Association, as a trade body affiliated to the REA. It will operate from the same offices as the Renewable Energy Association, which will provide its administrative functions and policy expertise.
The move will bring together the thirty three year old STA and members of the REA’s Solar Power Group, into a new revamped STA fully representing both the solar thermal and PV industry.
This will make the STA the largest solar trade body in the UK with over 400 industry members, at a time when solar is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK. This will give the solar industry a stronger voice and better representation, and the resources to fully engage in standards and certification work as well as far more targeted promotional campaigning. Training and education will also become increasingly important as the industry matures.
The affiliation adds strengths to both parties, and sharing an office in Central London will mean that the two teams will work on issues that impact on all renewable sectors, with more cohesion than ever before. The roll out of the new association will be happening over the coming months, with a member get together and Q&A session at Ecobuild.
Howard Johns, Chairman of the Solar Trade Association said; “With the growth in the solar industry in the UK this move to bring the industry together more fully could not have come at a better time. We really need good representation for solar in the UK and I believe this new revamped STA will provide it.”
Gaynor Hartnell, Chief Executive of the REA said “Having won the feed in tariffs, which fired the starting gun for PV in the UK, we’re keen to catch up with our European neighbours. With the solar tariffs now under review, and the continued delay to the heat incentive we need unity more than ever before.”
Existing members have welcomed the move, as they will benefit from not having to join multiple associations.
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