Municipal Electric Vehicles
We’re making the switch to electric town fleet vehicles as an investment in a cleaner, greener future for our community. By choosing smarter, more sustainable options, we’re taking steps today that benefit all of us tomorrow.
Our Timeline
November 2020 – May 2021: Funding application + feasibility study prepared for EV pilot project
August 2022: Funding approved + agreement signed
September 2022: Began procurement of EVs and charging stations
December 2023:First EVs delivered
6 months of data indicates that the Town saved ~ $11,000 in gas and spent ~ $2,000 in electricity for the 6 EVs.
A net savings of about $9,000! The full report will be completed at the end of the project.
PCSP’S Pilot Project
- 6 new EVs replaced 6 existing Town fleet vehicles that were due for replacement
- 80% funding from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM)
- Additional savings from the Federal and Provincial EV rebates + NL Hydro EV Charger rebate
- Overall, the Town spent 65% less than was originally budgeted to replace these 6 vehicles with gas options
We’re proud to be working alongside the Town of Torbay toward electrifying our fleets and building a cleaner, greener future for our communities. This collaborative effort, knowledge sharing and exploring solutions together supports a more sustainable future for both communities.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Facts
A lot of research has been done as part of the feasibility studies for both the Town of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s and the Town of Torbay fleet electrification projects. Here are some of the key points we’ve learned:
- Cold weather impacts EV battery range (it impacts the range of gas/diesel vehicles too)
- Town vehicles don’t usually drive over 100 km/day
- EVs on the market today have 400 km ranges or more
- Average efficiency loss in cold is 20-25% (Source: 2022 testing by ConsumerReports)
- EVs are 83x less likely to catch fire than gas vehicles
- If an EV does catch fire, it is harder to put out because of the battery chemistry. Town Fire Departments are aware of EV fire suppression guidelines. (Source: evfiresafe.com)
