A new Europcar Van Supersite opened in Birmingham Newtown yesterday (March 13). 

Europcar Mobility Group UK says it has committed significant investment to its latest Van Supersite, complementing its Supersite network which runs down the spine of the UK.

And, with Birmingham’s CAZ scheduled for introduction in 2020, the new site aims to provide access to a wide range of compliant, multi-modal transport solutions.

Featuring electric van trials for businesses attending the opening, the event set out to demonstrate how new sustainable technology can help reduce emissions and improve air quality in Birmingham. It also featured guest speaker, Mark Cartwright from the Freight Transport Association (FTA), who talked about sustainable technologies and integration into corporate fleets.    

Councillor Waseem Zaffar, Birmingham City Council’s cabinet member for transport and environment, said: “I’m honoured to officially open the Europcar Van Supersite and welcome Europcar’s commitment to promote sustainable mobility in Birmingham. 

“The cars and vans available to rent will all be compliant with the new Clean Air Zone and will help local businesses and consumers to improve air quality and reduce emissions in Birmingham by using the newest cleanest technology. 

“Europcar launched its Electric Vehicle Delivery and Collection service right here in Birmingham and there are plans to do more in the city to help the transition to electric technology.”    

He continued: “Europcar is a driving force for environmental change in Birmingham and we want to work as closely as possible in the future to help the cultural shift that needs to happen away from private car ownership and into car clubs, car rental and electric vehicles.” 

Located in the heart of Birmingham’s commercial centre, the new Europcar Van Supersite is operated by a specialist team of van and truck experts who can help local businesses identify the right mobility solution for their transport needs. This includes a totally compliant Euro 6 fleet of vans, ideal for businesses of all sizes operating in and through the Birmingham CAZ when it is introduced next year.

Gary Smith, managing director of Europcar Mobility Group UK, added: “We know that Birmingham City Council has advanced plans to introduce a Clean Air Zone in 2020 and we aim to play our part in supporting the initiative to improve air quality and reduce emissions in the local area and beyond. As such, our new Supersite is offering local businesses sustainable mobility solutions, including electric vans.”

The new site taps into Europcar’s growing fleet of electric and hybrid vehicles strategically positioned across the UK. Plus it offers a range of specialist commercial vehicles, including modified double cab tippers and fully compliant, ready to rent Chapter 8 fleet suitable for businesses operating on roads and highways.

Europcar’s long term flexible rental solution – Advantage – is also available from the new Birmingham Newtown site.

Photo caption: Europcar Mobility Group MD Gary Smith, with Councillor Waseem Zaffar and station manager Mike Keeley at the new Van Supersite