Scottish Water has unveiled its newest and greenest addition to its vehicle fleet.

A fully electric-powered Renault Kangoo is now being used by Waste Water Process Scientists in Dumfries and Galloway to help reduce carbon emissions.

The vehicle has been in use for a few weeks now and with a range of between 80 to 140 miles per charge, it is proving to be the perfect addition to the fleet. By not having to top up at the petrol pump using the van is helping protect the environment.

Jamie Hesketh, a Process Scientist at Scottish Water based in Dumfries, has been using the electric van. He said: "It is great that we are now maintaining high quality water standards as well as contributing towards a reduction in carbon emissions.

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"I cover up to 200 miles a week going between waste water treatment sites across Dumfries and Galloway. Knowing I am in an electric van now and not emitting any pollution and so doing a wee bit to protect the planet is a good feeling.

"It's also fun to drive as I'd never been in a fully electric vehicle before. I worked out I get an average 90 miles out of a single charge. The 60bhp (brake horsepower) motor is powerful enough and it’s very quiet. There's plenty of space for all the equipment we need to carry."

Scottish Water currently has 12 electric pool vehicles used by staff across the country. It will continue to update and replace its commercial fleet with electric vehicles when it is economic and operationally viable to do so. The utility is currently looking at opportunities to transition small and medium diesel vans to electric.