The City of Nanaimo has taken a step in reducing its carbon footprint by adding two electric vehicles to its fleet.
The Nissan Leaf zero emission electric cars are expected to provide the city with fuel and maintenance cost savings estimated between $20,000 and $25,000 per car compared to a similar gas powered compact car over the projected 10-year lifespan of the vehicles.
Green house gas emission reductions per year is expected to be 80 per cent compared to traditional vehicles.
While electric vehicles are considerably more expensive for the city to purchase, the reduced operating costs offset the increased purchase price.
“We look at all fleet vehicles as they come up for replacement and look for opportunities to downsize or go to alternative fuels including electric,” said Bruce Labelle, fleet manager. “The electric option doesn’t meet all the fleet needs today but as technology improves and more options are available, we hope electrics will be a substantial part of the city fleet.”
A third vehicle is on order, but due to product demand its arrival has been delayed.
Public charging stations will be installed at a number of facilities over the coming months as the city prepares to see more electric vehicles on local roads.
Three charging stations have been installed for the fleet cars; two at the Franklyn Street compound and one at public works on Labieux Road.
For more information about city fleet vehicles, please e-mail labelle at bruce.labelle@nanaimo.ca or call 250-756-5312.