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Committed to reducing its carbon
footprint in London, Avis now uses a fleet of electric bikes for its
deliveries and collections around the city. The bikes are provided and
operated by Avis’ supplier Vehicle Enhancement Services (VES).
VES had previously worked with Avis for
just over three years, before tendering to become the service provider
for vehicle preparation, delivery and collection, and site transfer. As
part of its tender, VES proposed that Avis became the first rental
company to substitute petrol-driven bikes with electric-powered vehicles
in London, to minimise pollution.
VES invested in buying additional
batteries and charging equipment to minimise downtime and ensure optimum
use of the electric bikes. As with the existing 2-stroke petrol Hopper
Bikes on the VES fleet, used for delivery and collection around London,
the new electric versions are easily collapsible for stowage in the boot
of a car. They are equally robust and reliable.
The electric bikes are ideal for use
within the M25 radius, with an optimum range of 20 miles before
requiring recharging. Currently 40% of Avis’ London deliveries,
operating out of Park Royal, Euston, Mayfair, Earls Court, Waterloo,
Tower Bridge, London City Airport and Croydon, are fulfilled using the
electric bikes and this is set to increase next year.
Steve Davidson, City Manager, London,
Avis says: “When VES suggested the service we were all for it, as we
are committed to reducing pollution and improving our carbon footprint
wherever possible throughout the company. The electric bikes have been
even more reliable than anticipated and the service is working extremely
well.”
Earlier this year Avis added 20 Prius
vehicles to its UK fleet, following in the footsteps of Avis Germany’s
introduction of natural gas VW Tourans. In 2005 Avis Portugal reduced
its CO2 emissions by over 50 tonnes, thanks in part to the
introduction of 50 hybrids. Scandinavia also offers its customers the
option of renting one of over 400 ethanol-powered vehicles.
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