The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has deployed electric large goods vehicles (eLGVs) and electric cars for the first time, marking a milestone in the UK fire service’s shift toward low-emission operations.
Two 16-tonne Renault electric lorries are now stationed at the brigade’s Operational Support Centre (OSC) to deliver equipment across the city, replacing diesel vehicles that had been in service for more than two decades. The LFB said the eLGVs will also “respond to incidents when required,” although it did not specify the exact nature of these emergency deployments.
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In addition, eight Volvo XC40 battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) have been introduced at the LFB’s training centres in Ruislip, Beckton, and Croydon. The electric cars will be used to train senior officers in blue-light driving skills, making the London Fire Brigade the first fire service in the UK to operate a fully electric fleet for training purposes.
“London Fire Brigade is proud to lead the way in decarbonising the fire and rescue sector. By investing in electric training cars and LGVs, we are not only meeting our own sustainability commitments but also setting an example for others to follow,” said LFB Deputy Assistant Commissioner Mark Davidson.
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Renault Trucks UK & Ireland managing director Carlos Rodrigues said the vehicles demonstrate that electric technology can meet the performance, reliability, and capability requirements of demanding public service roles.
