Introducing our first hybrid welfare unit to the fleet

Award-winning flexible vehicle hire provider Reflex Vehicle Hire has introduced hybrid power to its welfare van range.

Reflex is leading the industry in expanding its hire range to include alternative fuels, with the latest innovation following the provision and testing of fully-electric commercial vehicles for some clients.

The welfare van is based on the robust Ford Transit 350 L3 H3 Leader, which has an ultra-clean 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine that uses the latest Euro 6 technology. The drivetrain is supported by a 48-volt mild hybrid system to optimise and enhance fuel efficiency.

The standard alternator is replaced with a belt-driven starter/generator that provides assistance while the vehicle is moving to reduce fuel use, particularly when accelerating.

During braking, potential energy that would have been wasted is used to recharge the 48-volt lithium-ion air-cooled battery pack.

The EcoBlue Hybrid welfare van is also fitted with stop/start technology, so the engine can automatically shut down and restart while stationary or while coasting to a stop. The driver can adjust the coasting speed at which the automatic stop/start system operates, between 7mph and 12mph.

The hybrid welfare van enhances a unique offering from Reflex Vehicle Hire; it was developed following ongoing consultation with its customers to ensure their future vehicle needs are met.

The welfare van, which can seat seven crew including the driver, features a kitchen with sink and microwave, a crew area, storage, water heater, electrical system with plugs and USB charging ports along with a built-in toilet. As with all its range, Reflex oversaw the design, build and signwriting process for the new hire vehicle.

Lisa Spong, Reflex Vehicle Hire sales director, said:

Our fleet customers are leading the way in adapting their fleets to support the government’s Road to Zero ambitions. We are working with our business customers to help with this transition by providing an extended range of fuel options for our specialist vehicles, not just standard vans.

The first fleet vehicle is being use by a major fleet operator working in the rail sector, with discussions ongoing with more customers about how Reflex can help align each company’s specialist needs with their environmental commitments.

The welfare van is part of Reflex Vehicle Hire’s ‘Ready to Work’ range, which focuses on providing pre-configured vehicles to meet the operational and compliance needs of fleets.

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