GRITIT

The UK’s leading winter risk management company, GRITIT, will be the first in its sector to trial electric vehicles. Following an initial meeting, and a number of test drives, the company has opted to pilot a light commercial vehicle with Azure Dynamics in the months of November and December, later this year.

GRITIT, an award-winning company, and the first in the UK to focus exclusively on winter gritting has developed a reputation as an innovator and market leader in this specialist field. The company saves businesses money by ensuring they remain operational during adverse weather conditions and by preventing accidents and reducing the unnecessary costs of injury.

Commenting on the electric vehicle trial, Nikki Singh-Barmi, operations director at GRITIT, said: “We are keen to embrace electric vehicle technology, both from an ethical and a commercial perspective, and to continue remaining at the forefront of innovation in our field. Equally, we are committed to meeting the 2020 EU regulations around light commercial vehicle CO2 emissions.”

GRITIT approached Azure Dynamics, a world leader in the development and production of hybrid electric components and powertrain systems for commercial vehicles. Following on from the initial meeting, it has been confirmed that the company will trial a Transit Connect Electric vehicle in the London area towards the end of 2011.

Singh-Barmi added: “Given our vehicles generally tend to be out and working in the dead of night, it is imperative for our operators (the gritters) to minimise any noise disruption – electric vehicles are certainly far quieter than fuel, and they don’t pump out any emissions.

“We’re going to trial the vehicle later this year and put it through its paces; there’s no reason to think it won’t do the same job. Clearly, they are more expensive vehicles to purchase, but the long-term benefits and potential costs savings are vast; no fuel costs, less working parts and vehicle longevity.”

Gary Whittam, sales and marketing director Europe, at Azure Dynamics, added: “As an early adopter of using electric vehicle technology, GRITIT has demonstrated that – as a business – it is environmentally aware. And, I firmly believe it will be down to sector leaders to define the use of these types of vehicle in the future.

“The trial will be key; from a manufacturing perspective, we are keen to know how GRITIT uses the vehicle, and what the overall experience is. Whilst electric vehicles have their place in terms of protecting the environment, they must also do their job and serve a commercial purpose. As a business, we are committed to providing customers and partners with innovative, cost-efficient, and environmentally-friendly energy management solutions.”

GRITIT is the UK’s leading winter risk management company, providing protection for clients against the financial and physical risks of adverse weather.Founded in 2004, the award-winning company was the first in the UK to focus exclusively on winter gritting and maintenance services and has developed a reputation as an innovator and market leader in this specialist field.

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