New incumbent on area 9 make significant steps towards sustainable works in the UK.
In a UK first, the Area 9 contract launched on July 1st with 100% of the vehicles using alternative fuels. Colas have sourced vehicles which will minimise our impact on the environment from day 1 of the contract to help achieve the goal of becoming carbon net zero and in support of National Highways goal to lower their carbon footprint.
Area 9 will be operated on by HVO vehicles and fully electric vehicles. HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) fuel is a low carbon and low emission alternative, emitting less carbon dioxide than regular diesel and oil. In addition, HVO fuel further benefits the environment by burning cleaner and prolonging vehicle service schedules.
Whilst the larger IPV’ spec vehicles will use HVO, some of the smaller ones are to be battery powered and fully electric having been sourced from fellow Safer Highways member Acklea, with those visiting this years SHL!ve in for a treat as the manufacturer brings along one of the first to roll off of the production line.
Having won the £328m, 8 year contract from previous incumbent Kier, Colas have made significant strides in evolving the way works are specified to achieve net zero by reducing carbon emissions.