PORTSMOUTH POLICE JOIN THE ELECTRIC REVOLUTION

Hampshire Constabulary's transport department is leading the way in supporting environmentally friendly vehicles by trialling a Nissan LEAF last month.

Operational officers tested the car to its limits, using it for their emergency response work and other general duties in and around the northern Portsmouth suburb of Cosham. The police officers found it to suit their inner-city emergencies perfectly.

The officers enjoyed the convenience of being able to charge the 100% electric vehicle at Cosham police station overnight using the mains from the building. So for a mere 93 pence, officers were able to run the car for up to 100 miles, before needing to recharge it again.

Chief superintendent Nigel Hindle is a firm believer in driving down vehicle running costs and increasing sustainability, and ensuring their officers and staff use the most efficient vehicles is one way of achieving that goal.

John Bradley, the force's transport manager said: "For years, Hampshire Constabulary has been closely monitoring the latest vehicle technology in order to reduce the force's impact on the environment.

"I am really excited by the Nissan LEAF, as it is a car that has been developed from the ground up to be a fully-engineered electric car. In the long term, electric vehicles could have a great impact on the force in terms of our carbon footprint and the money saved through reduced fuel costs."