The new Mercedes eVito electric panel van is helping one leading media and entertainment firm drive to its Net Zero carbon target by 2030.
Sky has purchased 11 versions of the latest eVito van which feature a 66kWh battery with rapid DC charging to deliver a range of 162 miles.
The vans will now be used by engineers to service TV and broadband customers across the UK.
Incorporate the bespoke racking and telematics systems
All 11 Mercedes eVito electric panel vans have been converted by Leicestershire-based Bott to incorporate the bespoke racking and telematics systems required by Sky.
The vehicles also have impressive graphic wraps that are recognisable to the public.
The purchase, made with the help of Midlands Truck & Van, aligns with the Sky Zero mission; to cut its carbon emissions and those of its suppliers by at least 50% within the next seven years while inspiring people to ‘#GoZero’.
‘No need for us to compromise while taking a greener path’
Sky’s fleet operations manager, Lorraine McNiven, said: “The eVito is a 100% electric model that means there is no need for us to compromise while taking a greener path.
“The size and specifications of the vehicle make it an ideal workspace for our engineers once it has been customised to our needs by Bott, and we can enjoy the confidence that comes with Mercedes manufacturing.”
Rob Hannam, the head of fleet at Unipart Logistics, which works with Sky as a repair and customer service partner, said: “There are very few electric panel vans on the market, and even fewer that are suitable for carrying the equipment engineers need to fix problems quickly – so the eVito was the obvious choice.
“I am sure drivers will love its excellent handling and comfort, while most importantly the new vehicle will help Sky cut its carbon footprint even further.”
‘Thrilled that Sky has selected the eVito’
Carol Kirk, a business manager at Mercedes-Benz UK, said: “We are thrilled that Sky has selected the eVito as a perfect combination of fantastic practicality, extensive range and, best of all, zero emissions.
“The new model is proving popular with business customers from sole traders to large corporations; there seems to be very little the eVito cannot handle.”
She added: “The team at Midlands Truck & Van have been excellent and have worked with all parties to prepare and deliver the vehicles for conversion to Bott and will further assist in the onward delivery to the engineers with a full handover.
“This vital service will include an in-depth product overview, charging guides and driving style tips, providing Sky engineers with an invaluable education into the world of electric mobility, as well as all of the features and benefits the eVito has to offer.”