MERSEYSIDE'S first Eco-electric vans have hit the streets as part of the Mersey Tunnels drive for a cleaner environment.

In tune with Merseytravel's environmental policy to reduce air pollution and congestion in Merseyside, the vans are another step on the road to Green Transport - the pollution solution.

The zero-emission battery powered vehicles are used by Tunnels staff on a daily basis for delivery and maintenance work in and around Liverpool and Wirral.

Costing just 50p for a full charge up, delivering 45 miles, the new technology benefits both the environment and the wallet.

Outwardly, the two Peugeot vans appear no different from their conventional cousins, but they have no exhaust pipe. They are charged from an ordinary electric socket over night - with a fast option of just 30 minutes.

On-the-road at £10,000, the vehicles are not much more expensive than their fuel combusting counterparts.

The pollution busting scheme has been plugged in with financial support from the Energy Savings Trust.

Merseytravel Vice Chair, Councillor Hugh Lloyd said the new Eco-electric vehicles would demonstrate the practicality of environmental action. He is pictured with Tunnels Manager John Gillard.

"Merseytravel is committed to reducing pollution and congestion on the streets, protecting and enhancing the environment, economy and health of Merseyside," said Coun Lloyd.

"We are working on a range of new technology solutions, with SMART-ECO electric buses in Birkenhead and Compressed Natural Gas buses in Southport. These Eco-electric vans are joining the pollution busting team."

The Energy Saving Trust's Manager of Transport Projects Jonathan Murray, praised Merseytravel's project.

"We are delighted to support another Merseyside initiative, helping spread the green transport message and put these environmental technologies firmly into the mainstream," he said.

Footnote. Wallasey Globe exclusively carried a picture of a Jaguar on test as a possible Mayoral car.

Coun Lloyd, the next Mayor, points out they want a Eco friendly car.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.