The City of Cornwall’s pilot project for environmentally-friendly vehicles began Thursday, July 16, with two cars set to hit the road.

The first, an electric vehicle, will be used by the Clerk’s Department for mail delivery between City facilities.

The second, a hybrid vehicle, will accommodate travel by Social & Housing Services staff to satellite offices in Chesterville and Alexandria.

“This pilot program will allow City staff to track operating and maintenance costs for hybrid and electric vehicles,” said Mayor Bernadette Clement. “I am pleased to see this project hit the road, as part of our focus on sustainability and climate change.”

In 2018, approximately 34% of the City’s greenhouse gas emissions were due to vehicle use. The Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan Update and 2019-2023 Plan (click here to read) recommended that a City vehicle at the end of its life be replaced by an electric or hybrid vehicle. City Council then approved this recommendation.

“My thanks to David Bigelow, Corporate Fleet Coordinator, for his efforts in research and setting the specifications for these vehicles,” added Mayor Clement.