EUROPCAR UK is adding Toyota hydrogen fuel vehicles to its fleet with an Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) grant of €200,000, which is enabling the company to harness Toyota’s hydrogen technology.
As the largest private sector winner of the coveted OLEV grant, Europcar UK is adding several Toyota Mirai to its fleet, giving it the largest privately owned fleet of hydrogen cars and strengthening its commitment to reducing fleet emissions.
Gary Smith, managing director of Europcar UK Group, said: “We have a clear objective to create a zero emissions fleet and with support from the OLEV grant we are even closer to this important milestone.
“This funding is part of a £35 million package that marks the UK government’s commitment to boosting the uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles and we are delighted to be the only private sector winner. The Toyota Mirai will be implemented to support Europcar’s recently acquired ground transportation business, Brunel, as well being accessible for corporate customer use.
“This is a major step forward for Europcar UK, putting us ahead of the competition when it comes to the size of our hydrogen fleet and moves us ever closer towards a zero emissions fleet that delivers the same level of convenience and performance that our customers expect, while improving air quality on UK roads.”
Jon Hunt, Toyota & Lexus fleet marketing manager, added: “Europcar UK’s success in winning the OLEV grant highlights its leadership and focus on embracing the latest fuel technologies to drive down emissions and promote greener transport solutions” added .
“The Mirai uses the Toyota Fuel Cell System (TFCS), which has no combustion engine and features fuel cell technology combined with hybrid technology. Using hydrogen to generate electricity, the Mirai emits no CO2 or pollutants, achieving superior environmental performance without compromising on driving pleasure or convenience.”
Supporting the introduction of the hydrogen powered vehicles, Europcar UK has also signed a fuel supply agreement with ITM Power, the energy storage and clean fuel company. The contract covers fuel dispensed across ITM Power’s clean hydrogen refuelling network, enabling Europcar to ensure the innovative vehicles are ready for rent at any time.
