Telecoms infrastructure giant Openreach has put its 5,000th electric van on the road as it continues on its path to become a zero-emissions business by March 2031.
Operating the UK’s second-largest commercial van fleet, Openreach is rapidly electrifying its 23,000-strong vehicle line-up to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and support national net-zero targets. The current fleet of 5,000 electric vans is already expected to save more than 10,000 tonnes of carbon emissions each year — equivalent to taking over 7,000 petrol cars from UK roads each year.
CEO Clive Selley commented: “As we continue our work to connect homes and businesses to the UK’s most reliable broadband technology, we also want to help build a cleaner, greener future.
“Seeing our 5,000th electric van on the road is a proud moment for everyone at Openreach.”
The company is supporting the transition to electric vehicles by installing EV charging points at its operational sites and the homes of its engineers, ensuring convenient overnight charging. More than 2,500 chargers have been installed across the country so far.
Openreach has partnered with First Bus, allowing engineers to use its bus depots for charging. This takes pressure off public charging infrastructure and provides charging solutions for engineers facing difficulties, particularly those living in flats.
To celebrate the landmark 5,000th electric van, Openreach has unveiled a specially branded vehicle designed by Stewart Signs, featuring the company’s ‘Let’s Reach Zero’ environmental branding.
The company is also accelerating its electrification efforts, with plans to add another 2,000 electric vans to its fleet by March 2026, alongside continued investment in charging infrastructure.
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