Riverford opts for electric Vauxhall Vivaro-e fleet

Organic fruit and vegetable supplier Riverford has welcomed 10 new Vauxhall Vivaro-e electric vans to its fleet and plans to go fully electric by 2025.

The Devon-based business is using the vans to make deliveries in and around its first fully-electric hub in Bristol.

It aims to turn 100% of its national fleet electric by the end of 2025, with its new Vivaro-e vans estimated to help save more than 68 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Jason Holt, Riverford’s head of logistics, said: “We chose Bristol as the site of our first fully-electric delivery hub because of its green reputation and commitment to climate change.

“We know customers there will be thrilled that their veg boxes will now be delivered emission-free, and we’re looking forward to expanding our electric van fleet across the country.

“Electric vehicles are an absolute no-brainer for all delivery businesses, especially Riverford where we pride ourselves on being environmentally conscious.”

The Vauxhall Vivaro-e was named the 2021 International Van of the Year and is available with 50kWh or 75kWh battery configurations. Capable of up to 205 miles from a single charge under WLTP testing, the Vivaro-e supports up to 100kW rapid charging with an 80% charge taking 30 minutes for 50kWh models and 45 minutes for 75kWh variants

Richard Hughes, light commercial vehicle director at Vauxhall, said: “Riverford is another fantastic British business embracing electric vans and working towards a more sustainable future. The Vivaro-e is the ideal choice for fleets looking to reduce not only their environmental impact but also their operating costs, all without compromising capability.”

The Vivaro-e comes with a 6.6 cubic metre maximum load volume and a 1,226kg maximum payload capacity, and is capable of towing up to one tonne.

Mitie has ordered 655 electric Vivaro-e vans as it continues to transition its fleet to electric power.

It comes after British Gas signed a deal for a further 2,000 Vivaro-e electric vans from Vauxhall. 

The fleet agreed to an initial order of 1,000 electric vans last summer. All 3,000 electric vehicles will be on the road by 2022.