News release

For immediate release

 Mayor Dean Murdock joins staff to unveil the new electric fleet trucks. 

First electric pickups join Saanich’s fleet 

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich is excited to introduce you to the newest member of the Fleet family: the Ford F-150 Lightning!

“We are excited to add these electric trucks to our fleet,” said Director of Engineering Harley Machielse. “Not only do they align with our commitment to sustainability, but they will provide significant cost savings in the long term.”

The Lightning represents the first electric pickup to be manufactured by a major automaker. Saanich received two vehicles earlier this month and is getting them ready to be used within Parks and Public Works. The units are unique, featuring a power on-board system that allows the vehicle battery to power and charge tools on job sites. This allows us to further decrease our corporate fuel consumption by reducing reliance on generators and brings us closer to our goal of being carbon neutral by 2040.

Reducing our reliance on noisy generators also creates quieter job sites within the district. The trucks will be put into service this month and will be seen throughout the community for years to come.

To date, electric cars make up approximately 13% of our fleet vehicles. The F-150 Lightnings represent the first pickup style of vehicles to enter our fleet. Thanks to the ongoing support of Council, we continue to transition our fleet and community to cleaner modes of transportation.

What’s a frunk?

Did you know these pickups have a “frunk”? The frunk is a large cargo area under the hood where the engine would traditionally be. Staff will be able to use the frunk for secure, dry storage of electric tools, battery charging stations and other items.

Learn more

Interested in going electric? We have lots of information available at saanich.ca/ev. You can also check out saanich.ca/rebates for climate-friendly transportation rebates and more! 

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Media Contact:

Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca