M&S put first electric Modec into service

M&S has launched its first Modec electric delivery van. The custom built Modec vehicle will operate in London from December 2008.

The Modec van, which will deliver to offices and stores in London, is run solely on electricity and will save around nine tonnes of CO2 per year by replacing a traditional diesel delivery van.

The quiet, zero emission vehicle is perfect for urban deliveries and is the first purpose-built electric vehicle to effectively harness the power of modern, high energy batteries.

Fitted with a refrigerated body, the Modec carries the same load as a standard M&S van, covers a range of over 70 miles with a maximum speed of 50 mph on one overnight charge. Because it is an electric vehicle, it requires no road tax, MOT or tachograph and is not liable for the congestion charge.

Richard Gillies, M&S Director of Plan A, said, "We are delighted to have the Modec van on the road. We are working hard to make our vans and lorries greener as part of our 100 point Plan A 'eco-plan'. This van is not only good for the environment - is also very quiet, which makes it ideal for deliveries in built up areas like London."

Jamie Borwick, Modec Chairman, said: ”We are delighted to see the first M&S Modec go into service. We look forward to working closely with M&S as they progress with Plan A.”