Virgin Media O2 has ordered 101 Renault Master E-Tech electric vans, supplied via Ayvens, to support its national broadband network’s engineers.
It selected the Master E-Tech due to its range of 285 miles and the availability of the L2H2 configuration, which combines load capacity and manoeuvrability.
Virgin Media O2 said the medium roof of the L2H2 model gives its broadband engineers the headroom to work comfortably.
All vans have received a conversion package, including rear racking, additional lighting, a workbench, an inverter to provide 240V power, a key-out system, ladder loaders and a solar panel.
The vans are expected to cover an average of 13,000 miles per year, over a five-year operating cycle, where they will support essential maintenance work.
Michael Brown, head of fleet and electric vehicle (EV) propositions at Virgin Media O2, said: “Our network engineers need vehicles that can support them wherever they’re working, whether busy city centres or rural locations.
“The Renault Master E-Tech electric offered the range we need, along with the right configuration to support our engineers on the road and on site.
“This is part of our journey to electrify our fleets and is one of the ways Virgin Media O2 is working to reduce its impact on the planet by cutting carbon and achieving net zero emissions by the end of 2040.”
Justin Costello, head of fleet at Renault Group UK, said: “Virgin Media O2’s decision to introduce over 100 Master E-Tech vans underlines how our electric light commercial vehicles (LCVs) are now delivering real-world capability for demanding fleet operations.
“With outstanding range, impressive practicality and a highly usable working environment, the Master E-Tech electric is an excellent fit for businesses that operate nationwide and need their vehicles to perform day in, day out.
“We’re delighted to support Virgin Media O2 as it continues its transition to EVs.”
