Louth County Council adds 22 new EVs to fleet

Louth County Council has said that it is proud to announce the addition of 22 new electric vehicles (EVs) to its operational fleet, marking what it said is a significant step in its commitment to sustainability and climate action.

The new fully electric Peugeot e-Partner vans, unveiled at County Hall in Dundalk on Thursday, bring the council’s total EV fleet to 27 vehicles, representing an electrification rate of almost 21%.

Supplied by Lynn Motors (Peugeot), the vehicles were procured through the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) Framework, ensuring both compliance and value for money.

Led by Louth County Council’s Fleet Management section, the project was developed in consultation with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), and, in partnership with ePower, five 22kW dual socket pedestals are being installed across four locations in various council depots across the county. The vehicles were branded by Universal Graphics.

This initiative aligns with the Government’s National Climate Action Plan and supports key objectives outlined in Louth County Council’s Climate Action Plan 2024–2029, which includes the development of a fleet usage policy aimed at decarbonising operations while maintaining service delivery.

Upon full deployment, Louth County Council will decommission its remaining high-usage diesel vans, further reducing its carbon footprint and operational emissions.

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Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: "This investment in electric vehicles is a clear demonstration of our commitment to a cleaner, greener Louth. By leading the way in fleet electrification, we are not only reducing emissions but also setting an example for other local authorities and communities. I’m proud to see Louth County Council taking real action to support climate goals and improve air quality across our county."

^{Above L-R: Sean Weir, National Fleet Sales Manager, Gowan Motors, Luke Messitt, Sales Director, Gowan Motors, Mark Lynn, Dealer Principal, Lynn Motors Peugeot, Cllr Michelle Hall, Mayor of the Borough District of Drogheda, Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, Cllr Robert Nash, Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District, Hugh Hall, Director of ePower, Sorcha Brophy, SEAI Programme Executive of EV Infrastructure & Policy and Thomas Murray, Universal Graphics at the launch of the new EV fleet at County Hall, Dundalk}

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: "The transition to electric vehicles represents a significant step towards achieving our climate goals, including the ambition of a 51% reduction in emissions by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2050.

"By investing in cleaner transport solutions, we are not only lowering our environmental impact but also improving air quality and supporting innovation in the green economy."

David Hanratty, Acting Director of Services, Louth County Council, said: “We recognise the urgent need to decarbonise our operations and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with Ireland’s national climate action plan targets.

"As a local authority, we have a responsibility to lead by example, and we will continue to work proactively to integrate sustainability into all aspects of our service delivery. We are proud to take this important step forward in leading the way for our communities.”

Sean Weir, National Fleet Sales Manager at Gowan Auto (Peugeot), said: “We are proud to support Louth County Council in their transition to a more sustainable fleet with the delivery of 22 fully electric Peugeot e-Partner vans, prepared by Lynn Motors, Peugeot dealership in Dundalk.

"It’s encouraging to see a local authority leading by example, not only by investing in zero-emission vehicles, but also by ensuring their team is fully trained to operate and manage EVs through our comprehensive EV training course at the Gowan Auto Academy. The adoption of electric vehicles by government bodies is a crucial step in reducing transport emissions and achieving national climate targets.”

Hugh Hall, Co-Founder and Director, ePower, said: "Louth County Council’s commitment to fleet electrification sets a strong example in driving sustainable transport forward. ePower went through a competitive tender process to be selected, and we are proud to support this initiative by providing tailored EV charging solutions that help power a greener future."