Rochdale Borough Council’s environmental management department has invested in 12 hybrid vehicles which are estimated to reduce emissions and fuel costs by a minimum of 15-20%.

Purchased with assistance from the Department of Transport under the Government Framework to replace the existing and ageing fleet, the new vehicles cost the same as the old fleet, but construction of the vehicles is far better quality than the old vehicles, meaning greater reliability and a reduced need for maintenance.

They will form part of the new frontline of street services and parks vehicles, which will be used throughout Rochdale, Heywood, Middleton and Pennines .

Unlike many hybrids, the fleet does not need any plug-in charging as the regenerative braking system delivers a constant charge to the battery.

This ensures the fleet will release up to 33% less harmful CO2 into the atmosphere.