Fire brigade unveils six new electric vehicles to drive sustainability efforts

Cleveland Fire Brigade has announced the rollout of six new electric vehicles (EVs) into its fleet as part of its Climate Change Plan and commitment to reduce the Brigade’s carbon footprint annually. 

These new electric vans will be allocated to key operational areas to undertake building maintenance on the service’s fire stations, community safety activities and help with non-emergency activities across Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland and Stockton-on-Tees.

“Our Climate Change Plan emphasises year-over-year reduction in our carbon footprint. During the 2023/24 reporting period, the Brigade’s total emissions amounted to 804 tonnes of CO₂, with fleet operations contributing 391 tonnes. To address this, we’re phasing out older, less efficient vehicles in favour of zero and ultra-low emission vehicles.”

Simon Weastell, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Cleveland Fire Brigade.

By replacing older vans nearing the end of their service life with advanced, eco-friendly options, Cleveland Fire Brigade is not only reducing its environmental impact but also setting a sustainability benchmark within the community. The withdrawn vehicles will be sent to auction to be sold on.

“Several of the new electric vehicles proudly feature a ‘heritage livery’ showcasing the ‘vermillion red’ colour and original logo from the Brigade’s formation in 1974. While these new, eco-friendly vehicles look to the future, the livery honours our past and 50 years of service and fleet.”

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