As a direct result, the London South depot is expected to fall from emitting 232 tonnes of CO2 on-site annually, to becoming a net-zero dealership, thanks to the inclusion of multiple energy-saving features such as solar panels, smart LED lighting and air source heat pumps, which replace older gas boilers. It is also the first dealership in the network to be certified as a zero waste to landfill operation.
Christian Coolsaet, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, explains: “This site has been a major hub within our network for more than 40 years and, following this latest investment, we’re confident it will play a pivotal role in our future – particularly as we support local fleets in transitioning to a new generation of quiet, zero tailpipe emission battery electric trucks.
“Whilst much of our focus has been on promoting the benefits of these cleaner and greener vehicles, in the background we’ve also been working to reduce the environmental impact of our services and operations. What we’ve achieved with our London South dealership sets a fantastic example to the industry and is a credit to the teams managing this project from concept to completion.”
Stuart Potter, Operations Director for the Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East dealer group, says: “The investment ensures we have an ultra-modern dealership in a prime location close to central London, from which we can offer customers an enhanced level of service, support future generations of product, and continue to attract the best talent wanting to join our team.”
Other enhancements at the site include the creation of additional on-site parking following a significant landscaping effort, plus a much brighter workshop thanks to new doors and skylights which maximise the use of natural daylight, along with new cladding for improved thermal efficiency, and on-site electric vehicle charging points.
Originally opened in 1980, the Croydon-based depot is located just 10 miles from central London and is home to a team of nearly 70 staff, of which more than 30 are HGV technicians. The dealership benefits from six vehicle bays, offering 12 workspaces, along with a dedicated Authorise Testing Facility (ATF) lane, and is staffed by two daily shifts, Monday to Saturday.