An order for 650 ID Buzz Cargo vans from Mitie is one of the largest fleet deals to date for the electric vehicle (EV), says Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

The first vehicles have already joined Mitie, with the company marking the milestone of deploying its 4,000th EV this week. 

As part of its Plan Zero pledge to reach net zero emissions for its own operations by the end of 2025, Mitie needed to add to its growing electric fleet.

The ID Buzz Cargo was selected following a competitive pitch, because of its premium driving experience, all-electric range and competitive price.

Mitie also required a load space suitable for a large variety of requirements that support its applications. The ID Buzz Cargo has a payload hold volume of 3.9m3, and a maximum loading width of 1.7m, height of 1.3m and length of 2.2m.

Working alongside Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and Mitie’s nominated conversion partner, Gentili UK, they devised a solution which includes one side of lightweight racking with four shelves to safely hold parts and equipment, as well as a lockable cabinet for high-value tools.

The vehicles feature a load-through bulkhead, removing the need for roof racks and external pipe carriers.

Craig Cavanagh, national fleet manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “The ID Buzz Cargo is a sustainable business companion, operating as an on-the-go all-electric office.

“We are delighted that we were able to facilitate the bespoke solutions for Mitie, so that it can use the ID Buzz Cargo in the manner that it requires.”  

Heidi Thompson, group fleet manager at Mitie, added: “As one of the UK leaders in electric fleets, with more than 4,000 Mitie EVs on the road, we’re always looking for new vehicle options that will help us meet our broad range of business needs.

“With Mitie colleagues giving great reviews on the comfort, driving experience, and practicality of the ID Buzz Cargo, this model was an ideal choice to cater to the diverse requirements of our engineers, cleaners and landscaping colleagues that will be driving the Buzz.”