Public sector fleets have just weeks left to benefit from the Government’s hybrid van and minibus programme.

The Department for Transport is offering a subsidy of more than £3,400 per vehicle toward a new Ashwoods Hybrid Transit. However all orders must be placed before March 31 to qualify for the grant.

The grants are available through the DFT’s Low Carbon Vehicle Procurement Programme (LCVPP), which aims to help public sector organisations such as central and local government bodies to become early adopters of low carbon vehicles. It is also open to housing associations, universities and further education establishments.

Thanks to the LCVPP funding, the Ashwoods Hybrid Transit can deliver a return on investment after the first 20,000 miles.

Mark Roberts, managing director of Ashwoods Automotive, said: "This is a great opportunity for public sector fleets to access funding that will help cut carbon and save money. The Government funding is only there for the first 500 orders. We have a few places remaining and will fill them on a first come, first served basis."

Based on the rear-wheel drive Ford Transit, the Ashwoods Hybrid Transit is the only DFT-approved vehicle in the programme. It is available as a chassis cab, minibus or panel van.

Ashwoods has streamlined the procurement process so it can be completed in a matter of days.

The Ashwoods Hybrid Transit is fitted with an award-winning hybrid system that captures wasted energy and uses it to help the engine burn less fuel. It reduces diesel consumption by up to 25%, helping organisations to lower their fleet fuel bills and reduce carbon emissions.

The van requires no charging, plugging in, or special treatment and can used for any job for which a regular van would be considered.