Severn Valley Country Park electric buggy

Rangers at Severn Valley Country Park (SVCP) are cutting Shropshire Council’s carbon footprint by using an electric buggy to get about the 126-acre site.

We've pledged to be at net zero carbon by 2030, and this measure exemplifies the steps being taken. SVCP traded in its diesel vehicle and exchanged it for a leased electric vehicle. The park received financial support from the Climate Change Task Force, showcasing departments’ willingness to collaborate to progress the decarbonisation agenda. The new utility task vehicle (UTV) went into service in December 2022 and, as well as reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting emissions, it's expected to make maintenance savings too. An electric charging point is also being installed on site. The UTV produces less air and noise pollution than a traditionally powered vehicle. It also requires less maintenance due to fewer moving parts, which should result in additional financial savings. It will be used by the countryside team to perform a wide range of activities across the park.

Make and model

Polaris Ranger XP Kinetic

Time to achieve full charge

5 hours

Range

70kms

Tow weight

2,500lbs

Diesel saved

340 litres per year

Advantages

• Less reliance on fossil fuels
• Reduced emissions and carbon footprint
• Maintenance savings
• Less air and noise pollution

Estimated carbon savings per year

1 tCO2