The municipalities of Victoria and Saanich have joined forces to purchase 13 new electric vehicles that is expected to save more than $100,000.
The City of Victoria has purchased nine vehicles, while the District of Saanich has purchased four, with a rebate of more than $8,000 per vehicle from the province.
The vehicles run on electricity and are propelled by one or more electric motors powered by rechargeable battery packs, while they convert approximately 60 per cent of the electrical energy from the grid to power at the wheels.
The fleet is also one of the largest of Ford Focus electric vehicles in Western Canada.
“This is a great way to collaborate with a neighbouring municipality, save taxpayers money and continue to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps. “It's terrific to see these vehicles replace carbon emitting ones moving Victoria further along the path of becoming a leading-edge 21st century city.”
Saanich Mayor Richard Atwell agreed.
“Saanich is always striving to offer cost savings for taxpayers, while reducing our carbon emissions,” he said. “This partnership brings us one step closer to meeting our goals, and we’re pleased to be working with Victoria on this important initiative.
The passenger cars replace six cars and three vans in Victoria. The fleet also aids the community-wide greenhouse gas reduction target of 33 per cent by 2020.