APC Manchester, part of The APC delivery network - the largest independent parcel delivery network in the UK - has today launched the first of two electric vans in its fleet.

The launch of these All-Electric Ford E-Transit vans is part of APC Manchester’s ongoing investment into the future and sustainability of its business, helping customers reduce their carbon footprint and supporting longer term government initiatives to improve air quality across Manchester.

Quentin Abel, one of the founding members of The APC network and Managing Director of APC Manchester, said: “As a business we’ve always been determined to do the right thing; for our customers, our business and the environment. The launch of these EVs allows us to continue providing excellent service to customers in a more sustainable way, across the region. Our investment into EVs is just part of our continued commitment to making Manchester a green and clean place to live and work.”

As part of its investment into EVs, APC Manchester has also today announced plans to introduce six EV charging stations to its depot in Trafford Park next month. This investment comes ahead of the business’ commitment to gradually replace its existing fleet with EVs over the coming months, demonstrating the business’ determined and long-term strategic vision towards a sustainable future.

In the last few years, APC Manchester has invested significantly in its business, taking practical steps to reduce its own environmental impact, whilst supporting the region’s zero emissions target. To date, the business has undertaken a number of measures to improve on the energy efficiency of its Trafford Park depot, including the installation of a new state-of-the-art air heating system, and the introduction of ultra-efficient LEDs throughout the warehouse and offices, replacing low-efficiency, high-pressure sodium lamps. Skylights were also added into the warehouse, to provide a source of natural light, saving on energy and creating a brighter, better working environment.

Most importantly, electricity is generated by the 188 solar roof panels on APC Manchester’s warehouse, which provide enough energy to both power its entire Trafford Park site and supply excess electricity directly into Manchester’s grid. As a result of these solar panels - angled to catch light at different hours of the day - APC Manchester is now able to operate off-grid most days, with a maximum generating capacity of 50 kW. On a bright day in September however, the business can expect to generate 131 kWh of power. With APC Manchester’s base use of power during the day currently around 32 kWh, the remainder of the electricity generated by the business is supplied to the Manchester grid.

Quentin Abel, continued: “We are driven as a business to make a positive difference within Manchester. For us, we’ve always worked on the principle of making investments that deliver real benefits. The investments we have made into our warehouse and business to date, notably the rooftop solar panels, meet this criteria - finding a perfect sweet spot in delivering real benefits for our local SME customers and our local community..”

Jonathan Smith, Chief Executive at APC Overnight, said: “APC Manchester is a genuine example of a business that leads by example, and one that is committed to contributing positively to local businesses and its local community. APC Manchester’s continued investment into its business and sustainability initiatives will ensure it is well placed to navigate the continued evolution of our industry; building for future growth, and the growth of customers.”

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