AN all-electric delivery vehicle is undergoing Council tests.

In a bid to cut vehicle emissions, a battery-powered internal post delivery van is being evaluated by the Borough Engineer's department.

The van has a three cubic metres load space and can carry half a ton at speeds up to 60 miles per hour.

It can travel 40 miles before its batteries need recharging.

A department spokesman said: "The trial is part of the Council's determination to adopt the 'greening' spirit of Local Agenda 21 and find ways of becoming more environmentally friendly.

"Recently we took delivery of two vehicles powered by Liquid Petroleum Gas which is much 'greener' than petrol or diesel fuels.

"If the electric van does as good a job as traditional vehicles we shall consider using them permanently.

"Most vehicles produce some emissions. This one produces none at all."

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