Engie joined forces with Arval, a global specialist in corporate vehicle fleet leasing, to launch a new green transport service that aims to simplify access to electric vehicles for companies, local communities and private individuals, the global energy company announced Thursday.
According to the statement of Engie, who is also a major player in charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, the integrated service includes electric vehicle leasing from Arval and the installation and maintenance by Engie of charging points at company sites, in town centers or at drivers' homes for a monthly rental fee.
The service will be launched first in Belgium in early 2019 and then in France. It will subsequently be deployed in several countries, including Italy, the Netherlands and the U.K.
'Supporting the energy transition with cleaner mobility solutions – including electric – is at the heart of Engie's strategy,' said Executive Vice-President Shankar Krishnamoorthy.
'This new integrated offer, created jointly with Arval, will democratize access to electric vehicles and help improve air quality and reduce noise pollution in cities,' he added.
Arval's Chief Commercial Officer Bart Beckers said the partnership with Engie would support future customers with tailored electric mobility services that will facilitate their electrification strategies.
'For Arval, this partnership illustrates our ambition to be an active player in the energy transition by working with strategic international partners to accelerate change,' he added.
According to the statement, transport is currently responsible for 23 percent of carbon dioxide emissions worldwide while 95 percent of the sector still relies on petroleum fuels.
Electric vehicles help reduce air and noise pollution levels, particularly in urban areas, it said, adding companies are increasingly keen to introduce vehicles using alternative energy sources into their fleets.
According to the press release, 26 percent of companies intend to choose electric vehicles for part of their fleet in the next three years, and this percentage climbs to 56 percent among major corporations.
By Hale Turkes
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr