Stockport taxi firm joins clean air initiative

Stockport-based Lynx Taxis has joined with Stockport Council and Electric Blue UK to demonstrate the benefits of going electric to private hire drivers.

Fifty Stockport licensed private hire vehicles driven by Lynx drivers are being fitted with telematic devices which measure emissions from the vehicles.

The devices will also record routes driven which will help identify the best location for the future installation of electric charging points across the borough.

It is hoped that the initiative will show drivers and the taxi operator the potential financial and environmental benefits of converting their cars to less polluting electric vehicles.

Cllr Tom McGee, Stockport Council’s cabinet member for health, said: “We are delighted that Lynx Taxis has shown such enthusiasm for this project and we hope that it is a first step on the way to an electric-powered taxi fleet in Stockport.

“Air pollution is an urgent public health issue resulting in the premature deaths of around 2,000 people in Greater Manchester alone.

“Only by working in partnership with business can this serious problem be addressed.”

Ed Carman, from electric vehicle charging specialist Electric Blue UK, said: “Our EVolve fleet analysis demonstrates the real world economic and environmental benefits of going electric to both drivers and fleet operators, as well as the feasibility of converting to an electric vehicle.

“We are delighted to be working with Stockport Council and Lynx taxis on this initiative.”

Nicola Marshall, account manager at Lynx Taxis, added: “Lynx Taxis are thrilled to be involved with this project and we are very aware of air pollution issues.

“Working alongside Electric Blue UK and Stockport Council, this situation can be addressed. The interest of our drivers in this initiative has been overwhelming, and we are looking forward to being at the forefront of future change.”