The ACT Emergency Services Agency has signed an agreement with Volvo Group Australia that will see the manufacturer placed as its preferred supplier of zero emissions heavy vehicles.
The agreement is believed to be a first for an Australian emergency services agency.
“The journey towards a zero emissions future isn’t just accelerating globally. That journey is fast gathering pace here in Australia,” said Martin Merrick, president and CEO at Volvo Group Australia.
“Collaborations like the one we have just announced with the ACTESA are vital to help decarbonise our world and I applaud the agency for its commitment to being a part of this journey with us.
“We are very aware of the trust placed in us to fulfil this role. Every day around the world lives depend on our vehicles, and we look forward to that trust evolving towards an emissions free environment to improve the lives of many more.”
With emergency service support vehicles with zero-emissions capability not currently available in the market, ACTESA commissioner Georgeina Whelan says the fulfillment of this contract will position the organisation as a leader in Australia for zero-emissions operational support vehicles.
“At its core, the ACTESA strives to ensure the safety of our community, staff and volunteers. Making the transition to a sustainable fleet, subsequently contributing to the wellbeing of Canberrans and our environment, aligns with this key commitment,” said Whelan.
“The world around us is rapidly changing, both in terms of technology, workplace diversity and the environment and it is exciting that we are leading this change.”
Volvo Trucks has committed to being fossil-fuel free by 2040, with the production of electric trucks expected to begin at the Wacol site in 2025.