ACC’s fleet team wins national award

18 December 2020

Aberdeen City Council has lifted two top titles at the annual GreenFleet awards presentation ceremony.

The accolades include public sector fleet of the year (medium to large) and a commendation to William Whyte, as public sector fleet manager of the year.

GreenFleet, which recognises clean fleet innovation, acknowledged the work which has been carried out by Aberdeen City Council replacing older vehicles including increased numbers of electric and hydrogen vehicles.

In the last two years, the fleet department has replaced 215 vans, 20 refuse trucks, 12 other HGVs, and plant equipment for grounds and environmental services. This means there is improved performance and reduced internal costs as a result.

The City Council continues to grow its electric and hydrogen fleet, and, as well as small vans that are electric or hydrogen, the fleet department has introduced five dual fuel HGVs, two bin collection vehicles, and three large road sweepers over the last two years – these have reduced CO2 emissions by 19,870kg.

Aberdeen City Council hydrogen spokesperson Councillor Philip Bell said: “Well done to everyone in our fleet services for this award which is a fantastic accolade for their hard work.”

Aberdeen City Council chief operating officer Rob Polkinghorne added: “This is an amazing achievement which makes me feel really proud of everyone working in fleet services and their contribution towards making our city net zero is significant.”

The City Council’s fleet manager Willie Whyte has won several awards in the last few years.

Mr Whyte said: “The support and investment of Aberdeen City Council has enabled fleet services to increase our range of electric and hydrogen fuel vehicles as well as other innovations to help reduce our carbon footprint.

“This award is for the entire fleet team and for the people using the vehicles as their support and enthusiasm for the new technologies has helped us to win these prestigious awards – it’s a very proud moment for everyone.”