A unique initiative from Sunderland City Council has seen them launch a fleet of zero-emission vehicles for staff workers to use on business.

The pool of 10 Nissan Leafs, made locally at the Nissan factory plant, are part of the council’s Mobility Hub project which aims to promote more sustainable travel in the area.

The project will also see the council make 20 e-bikes available. The concept is borrowed from Europe, where similar hubs give those without a car access to a vehicle for short-term use. Sunderland is aiming to be carbon-neutral by 2040.

Speaking about the initiative, Councillor Claire Rowntree said: “This year, we have seen a great many reminders of the impact of global warming – from the devastating fires in Greece to flooding in the US, and we all have a role to play in ensuring we tackle the climate emergency.

“Initiatives like this one will put us right at the cutting edge in taking proactive steps to minimise our carbon footprint. We’re looking forward to testing the concept with these stunning Nissan cars that we’re very proud were made in Sunderland.”

Councillor Kevin Johnston, Dynamic City Portfolio Holder, added: “The Mobility Hub will stand at the heart of our Riverside Sunderland community, the UK’s first low-carbon urban quarter.

“We’re creating a unique place to live, work and play at Riverside and – through initiatives like this Mobility Hub – we will be able to show people a different way of living, offering them a service that will support them to live in a greener way and save money in the process.”

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