Five new electric vehicles will soon be charging their way into communities across West Mercia.

As part of Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) John Campion’s commitment to reduce the environmental impact of policing, as outlined in his 20/21 budget, the new zero emission vehicles will be used for community policing. T

hey are part of a pilot scheme that signifies the start of the plan to move West Mercia Police’s entire fleet to ultra-low emission vehicles over the next decade.

Mr Campion said: “This is a significant moment for the force with these five cars representing a positive step forward in reducing our carbon footprint.

"While we are still some way away from replacing the entire fleet, these vehicles are another example of my reform of West Mercia Police.

"I am very much looking forward to seeing these cars in the communities, supporting visible policing and tackling crime.”

Local Policing Chief Superintendent, Paul Moxley, said: “The introduction of these electric cars to our fleet is a positive first step in reducing our impact on the environment.

The geography of a force the size of West Mercia always presents challenges and therefore these vehicles will enable us to increase the engagement and visibility of our local policing and Safer Neighbourhood Teams.”