The Vale of Glamorgan Council's switch to electric vehicles has dramatically reduced the local authority's carbon footprint.  

 As the council works towards its Project Zero target of being carbon neutral by 2030, the authority has highlighted how the introduction of the electric vehicles plays a key role.

 The council introduced its first fleet of electric vehicles in 2022 and plans to replace diesel-powered vehicles across its service areas. 

 12 new Hyundai Kona electric vehicles replaced a number of diesel-powered cars last year.

With more than 4,000 miles on each vehicle, the new EV cars have reduced the council's CO2 emissions by an estimated 13,554kg so far.

They will continue to significantly reduce carbon emissions as 2030 draws nearer. Each Kona EV vehicle can travel up to 300 miles on a single charge and can be recharged in just one hour using a rapid charge point. 

 With further plans to replace council fleet vehicles with electric-powered alternatives, the council has recently acquired a number of electric vans which are now in use. 

 The vehicles are maintained by the council's in-house Transport Services team in partnership with Clenergy EV, who monitor the EV charging stations at the Civic Offices in Barry and The Alps Depot in Wenvoe. 

 Cllr Mark Wilson, cabinet member for Neighbourhood and Building Services, said: "The Council takes its responsibility for tackling climate change very seriously – which is why we have set such ambitious plans to reach zero carbon emissions by 2030. 

 "We as a Local Authority must lead by example when it comes to reducing our carbon footprint, so we are working to make the entire Council fleet zero emission at the tailpipe. 

 "Our vehicle replacement programme is key to achieving our Project Zero target, and we have exciting plans to replace more council fleet vehicles soon.

 "From waste management to support staff for vulnerable residents, vehicles are essential to many Council workers to carry out the day-to-day duties of their roles. By introducing electric vehicle alternatives across our service areas, we can ensure that this is achieved with as minimal impact on the environment as possible."

 To support residents and visitors to the Vale who have made the switch to electric vehicles, a number of EV charging stations have been installed in public spaces across the county and are now available for public use.