
Porirua City Council has taken a significant step towards reducing costs and emissions by integrating nine electric vehicles (EVs) into its fleet. Introduced in early December, the EVs are part of a broader effort to support a low-carbon future and are available for staff as pool cars.
Nicola Etheridge, General Manager Policy, Planning & Regulatory Services, highlights the economic and environmental benefits, stating that charging the EVs will cost about half as much as fuelling the hybrid vehicles they replace. “Porirua is an ideal city for driving an EV, given its compact size,” she says. Most Council trips are less than 40 kilometres a day, well within the range of the new EVs.
The initiative aligns with the Council’s strategic priority of building a low-carbon city. The vehicles are used for a variety of tasks, including building inspections, community engagements, and school visits.
To power the new fleet, Porirua City has partnered with Landis+Gyr-owned Thundergrid for the necessary charging infrastructure.
By switching to EVs, the Council demonstrates leadership in sustainability, positioning Porirua as a model for urban environmental responsibility.