Police Scotland 'electrifies' its fleet with £21 million contract

Police Scotland has become one of the first fleets in the UK to introduce more than 1,000 charging points across 265 locations in Scotland.

The work to install the charging points, which includes 35 120KW ultra-fast chargers is to be undertaken by BP Chargemaster. They secured the contract worth up to £21 million, in what it is calling “the largest ever deal of its kind in the UK”.

Matteo de Renzi, CEO of BP Chargemaster, said: “We are incredibly proud to be able to support Police Scotland through this landmark contract, the largest of its kind ever awarded in the UK, as they transition their fleet and contribute to the Scottish Government’s 2045 net zero target.”

Deputy Chief Constable Will Kerr, commented: “Police Scotland's fleet strategy is highly ambitious, with the aim of having the UK's first ultra-low emission blue light fleet by 2030. This substantial contract marks a major step towards that goal by making ULEVs accessible to more of our officers and staff.

“Achieving our fleet strategy aims will significantly reduce carbon emissions, while also reducing maintenance and servicing costs. It’s one of many strides the organisation is taking to achieve a sustainable, flexible service which meets the needs of our fellow citizens while also providing a modern, fit-for-purpose fleet for our people to use in the course of their work.”

The contract with Police Scotland follows another countrywide public sector fleet contract from BP Chargemaster in Scotland. A charging infrastructure rollout for the Scottish Ambulance Service, in partnership with WGM Engineering, has already begun at 34 of the 35 planned sites.

The partnership between BP Chargemaster and WGM Engineering continues on the Police Scotland programme. Ian Mathieson, managing director of WGM Engineering, said:

“We are delighted to be working in partnership with BP Chargemaster delivering this large scale and exciting EV transition programme for Police Scotland. Our partnership will provide cutting edge technology and smart solutions as well as unique local expertise on this pan-Scotland delivery.”