Mega van saves fuel and the environment

Date published: 27 February 2010

Bury Council has enhanced its “green” credentials by replacing one of its street care vehicles with an electric powered version.

The Mega Van, a zero emission vehicle, is being used by the waste management service to collect waste from approximately 50 litter bins around Bury town centre and to help keep public spaces clean, safe and green.

Since its introduction in December 2008 the vehicle has travelled 2,625 miles, resulting in a saving of around 298 litres of diesel and 784 kg fewer C02 emissions.

The vehicle, which is almost silent when in use, has a 100% recyclable battery and one battery charge can power the vehicle for around 80 miles.

Councillor Dorothy Gunther, executive member for environment and transport, said: “Bury Council is committed to establishing a more sustainable transport fleet which not only reduces its impact on the environment and the council’s carbon footprint but also offers better value for money.”