Carnell Group Accelerates EV Transition with Focus on Van Fleet

Carnell Group has announced the next phase of its decarbonisation strategy, building on earlier progress with company cars by beginning the transition of its van fleet to electric vehicles (EVs).

The move represents a significant step for the business as it looks to reduce emissions across its operations while maintaining the delivery of essential infrastructure services.

A couple of years ago, Carnell began by electrifying its company car fleet, and today reports that 97% of company cars are now either electric or hybrid, with 55% fully electric. With this milestone achieved, the group is now turning its attention to the more challenging task of converting vans, which form a critical part of its operational capability.

Supporting the TransitionTo ensure the success of the programme, Carnell has put in place several support measures:

• Employee volunteers are trialling EV vans.

• Home charging points are being installed where feasible.

• Office and depot charging facilities are being expanded.

• Each van driver is paired with an EV mentor from the company car pool.

  
  

The latest batch of EV vans alone is expected to cut annual carbon emissions by 15 tonnes of CO₂e, in addition to generating fuel cost savings.

Plant and Transport Director Lee Gill said the move is essential for long-term sustainability. “While transitioning our van fleet poses a greater challenge than company cars did, it’s a necessary step and one we’re fully committed to. As a business, we recognise the importance of operating sustainably and are taking proactive measures to ensure our transport strategy aligns with that responsibility.”

Why It Matters for Carnell

The initiative reflects Carnell’s position as a leading provider of safety, sustainability, and efficiency solutions for the UK’s highways sector. With over 25 years of experience, the company delivers specialist services including traffic management, safety barrier solutions, technology integration, and maintenance support for major infrastructure projects.

Given the scale and reach of Carnell’s operations, the impact of its vehicle fleet is significant. Vans are central to supporting teams working on live highways, transporting equipment, and delivering services to clients such as National Highways and local authorities. By targeting this part of the fleet, Carnell aims to demonstrate that operational effectiveness and sustainability can progress hand in hand.

Looking Ahead

The EV transition is part of Carnell Group’s wider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy. Alongside vehicle electrification, the company is investing in digital solutions, operational efficiency, and innovations to reduce its overall carbon footprint.

Industry observers note that Carnell’s proactive stance aligns with growing expectations for contractors and service providers in the infrastructure sector to lead by example in sustainability. By expanding its EV adoption, the company not only reduces emissions but also sets a precedent for best practice in the supply chain.

As the programme develops, attention will turn to scaling the van transition, monitoring performance in real-world conditions, and ensuring that sustainability remains embedded across Carnell’s wider business strategy.