New Prius adds range to zero emissions

More fleet managers are learning that there are plenty of reasons why they should consider car leasing to allow them to change their cars on a regular basis.

Not only does it ensure that vehicles are thoroughly maintained and minimises the chances of an expensive repair, but it can help to mitigate the damage of ever increasing fuel costs in the UK.

Manufacturers are listening to the needs and requirements of businesses and tailoring their new developments accordingly - making cars more sustainable and fuel efficient then ever before.

Toyota has been at the forefront of the alternative fuel source movement over recent years and Electricity North West has decided that it wants to benefit from these advancements.

Dr Shoichiro Toyoda, Toyota Motor Corporation honorary chairman, delivered the keys for the first new Prius Plug-in to be ordered by a fleet customer. Susan Stockwell, customer service director of the Warrington-based electricity distribution company, accepted them.

Ewan Shepherd, general manager for Toyota/Lexus Fleet Services, said: "It was an honour for us to have Dr Toyoda here for the hand-over of a car that is such an exciting and innovative proposition for our fleet customers.

"Prius Plug-in Hybrid marks an important development of Toyota's advanced, but highly practical technology for cleaner, more efficient and cost-effective transport."

He explained that its quickly rechargeable lithium-ion battery is changing the perception of electric vehicles among the fleet industry.

Now companies not only have zero emissions and extremely low motoring costs, but they have the potential for staff to cover great distances up and down the length of the UK.

As an electricity supplier it is only right that the firm makes use of these advantages, said Ms Stockwell.

She added that her colleagues are working hard to ensure that our network can support electric car charging points and make it easier for other businesses to follow its example.