North Charlotte Today

The city's Code Enforcement Division in Charlotte, N.C. has taken a significant step towards sustainability by introducing five new Ford F-150 Lightning electric vehicles into its fleet. This initiative aligns with the city's commitment to the Sustainable and Resilient Charlotte by 2050 Resolution and the Strategic Energy Action Plan (SEAP), which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote the use of sustainable energy.

In line with these goals, the city had set a target in 2018 to lower its greenhouse gas emissions, with one of the key strategies being the transition of the city's vehicle fleet to zero-carbon energy sources by 2030. The addition of the Ford F-150 Lightnings, with an impressive 220-mile range per charge, is a significant improvement compared to the division's previous electric vehicle, the 2012 Nissan Leaf, which had a range of only 75 miles.

Scott Edwards, Code Enforcement Coordinator, highlighted the division's commitment to sustainability, stating, "We began our journey towards sustainability in 2012 with the Nissan Leaf. Since then, we've added three propane trucks, two hybrid vehicles, and we're expecting more electric vehicles by fiscal year 2025."

The newly introduced electric vehicles will be utilized by code enforcement trainers, providing ample space for on-the-job training. Edwards explained, "Senior inspectors, responsible for training new hires, will be using these vehicles. The trucks are spacious, especially with the crew cab, offering plenty of room for everyone involved. New employees will accompany the trainers in these vehicles for a period of time. This hands-on experience will continue until they are skilled enough to work independently."

To support this enhancement, the city has been developing electric vehicle charging infrastructure and utilizing the ChargePoint app, which assists users in locating citywide chargers.

Looking towards the future, the city of Charlotte aims to further expand its electric vehicle fleet, with the ultimate goal of achieving a fully electric fleet by 2030. This commitment to sustainability and the incorporation of electric vehicles into the Code Enforcement Division's fleet is a significant step towards a greener and more environmentally conscious city.

Quotations:

- "We began our journey towards sustainability in 2012 with the Nissan Leaf," - Scott Edwards, Code Enforcement Coordinator.

- "Senior inspectors, responsible for training new hires, will be using these vehicles," - Scott Edwards, Code Enforcement Coordinator.