RSPB adopts electric car technology

THE RSPB is moving to reduce its carbon footprint by taking delivery of a new Renault Zoe electric car.

The white-painted Zoe will join a Kangoo Z.E. at the charity’s Bedfordshire base, with another of the all-electric Kangoos based in London.

Climate change is the biggest threat to the long-term habitats of British birds and animals, believes the RSPB, and it has reiterated its intent to do everything it can to reduce its own impact on the environment – including that of its 300-strong fleet of vehicles.

David Waller, RSPB’s head of central services, said: “As a wildlife conservation charity acutely aware of the potential impact of climate change, the RSPB is particularly committed to minimising its own CO2 emissions.

“The operational success of the two electric Kangoo Vans, one being in London, definitely influenced our thinking when considering the Zoe. As a charity with limited funds, the price point was another positive factor in our decision.

He added: “Clearly, we have to ensure the vehicle is utilised realistically and within its range capabilities, but they are sufficient to cover many of the business journeys made by staff. So far the Zoe has proved very popular with drivers.”

With a real-world range of between 65 and 90 miles in urban settings, the Zoe covers the majority of the operational needs of the staff based at the RSPB’s base.

The car can be charged using a conventional three-pin 3kW connection, a faster 7kW link or a 43kW AC fast-charger, which can boost the Zoe’s batteries from empty to 80% charged in 30 minutes.

By Press Association reporter