National Highways has taken delivery of 18 Toyota Proace Electric vans, marking a significant step in its journey toward an all-electric fleet. The medium-sized vans are the first light commercial vehicles (LCVs) to be added to the organisation’s operational lineup and will play a vital role in supporting day-to-day infrastructure inspections.

The new additions follow a recent fleet expansion that saw National Highways acquire 51 Toyota bZ4X electric SUVs. Together, these investments highlight Toyota’s growing presence in the public sector as more organisations look to cut carbon emissions from their fleets.

Toyota Proace Electric vans for National Highways

The Proace Electric vans will be used by specialist structures inspectors, a team responsible for monitoring and maintaining the safety of more than 4,500 miles of motorways and major A-roads across England. Their work requires reliable transport with plenty of load space — and that’s where the Proace’s electric platform and practical features come into play.

With its Smart Cargo system, the Proace Electric can carry long tools such as measuring poles, while still leaving room for safety gear, weatherproof equipment, and sample storage. National Highways will also be fitting racking systems in the rear to better organise the tools needed for on-site inspections.

Andy Butterfield, director of operational services at National Highways, said the Proace Electric vans will help support their round-the-clock operations. “Our operations run 24/7 to keep roads safe, well maintained and free-flowing,” he said. “These new vehicles will support that round-the-clock service, particularly for asset inspectors keeping vital infrastructure in check. Just as importantly, they represent a major step in cutting our carbon footprint.”

The new LCVs are part of National Highways’ wider sustainability strategy, which includes making all of its non-traffic officer light vehicles electric by 2027. Traffic officer vehicles will follow suit by 2030 as the organisation targets net zero corporate emissions within the same timeframe.

Neil Broad, general manager at One Toyota Fleet Services, welcomed the partnership. “It is rewarding to partner again with National Highways and support their work across the country maintaining safety of our road network,” he said. “As more businesses look to make the switch to electric vehicles, we have a team able to provide guidance and support along with one of the largest ranges of commercial vehicles available in the UK market.”

Phil Huff
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