Toyota Prius helps safer neighbourhoods

Thanks to a partnership deal between The Metropolitan Police Service, National Car Rental and Toyota, the 94 Safer Neighbourhoods teams across London have been given the use of Toyota Prius Hybrid cars.

Safer Neighbourhood teams play a big part in improving the quality of life and environment of London by tackling issues such as graffiti, litter, noise and abandoned vehicles.

The Toyota Prius, European Car of the Year 2005, is the most sustainable alternative to conventional means of transport. It uses a combination of a conventional 1.5-litre petrol engine and a 50kW electric motor. On the open road, power is derived from both sources, but on start up, when stationary and in slow moving traffic, the Prius switches to its electric motor. In this mode, exhaust emissions are reduced to zero. The Prius is also exempt from the Congestion Charge.

Commander James Smith, head of the Safer Neighbourhoods unit, said: "The work of Safer Neighbourhoods teams is an important contribution to improving the quality of life and environment of those who live and work in London. By using these vehicles, officers are both helping the Met reduce its impact on the environment and working with government towards a cleaner, safer, greener London."

Neil McCrossan, Vice President of Commercial Development of National Car Rental comments: "We have worked with the Metropolitan Police for a number of years now, supporting their varied transport requirements. We are proud to be utilising our expertise to enable the Met and their Safer Neighbourhoods teams run a cleaner, greener fleet."

Jon Pollock, General Manager Toyota Fleet said: "With more and more fleets aware of the environmental impact of running a number of vehicles, the Prius is able to offer considerable benefits in terms of fuel efficiency combined with low emissions. This makes it an ideal vehicle for use by Safer Neighbourhoods teams who are doing much to improve the environment in our capital city."