Taxi firm launches Melton’s first all-electric cab

Mark Faulkner of Elaine's taxis with Melton's first electric private hire vehicle EMN-201203-172621001

Elaine’s now has a Nissan Leaf which has a range of 230 miles before it needs to be charged again.

The company is already considering using a second electric vehicle because it is cheaper to run, compared to its petrol-driven cabs, and is kinder to the environment.

Mark Faulkner, a director of the company, said: “We have been thinking about getting an electric car for a while but there hasn’t been a suitable one available with the range we need.

Mark Faulkner of Elaine's taxis with Melton's first electric private hire vehicle EMN-201203-172559001

“Previously, the cars we looked at had ranges of only 60 or 70 miles which for a taxi is not enough.

“The elecric car we’ve got has a range of 230 miles which is much more viable for us and we’ve already taken a passenger on an airport run.”

The firm, which is based on the Pera Business Park in Nottingham Road, has eight cars in its fleet, including a Toyota Prius, a hybrid fuel/electric vehicle.

“It’s a lot cheaper than a diesel car and we are considering getting a second one,” said Mark.

Elaine's taxis are running Melton's first electric private hire vehicle EMN-201203-172633001

“The battery is guaranteed for 100,000 miles or eight years and there are less parts that can go wrong as there is no engine, oil filter of fuel filter.

“Our passengers like it because it is quieter than a diesel and there is a lot of room inside.”

Mark said he hopes other businesses will think about using electric vehicles although he says more charging points have to be provided in the town for that to happen.

“The infrastructure needs to get better in Melton for electric cars,” he added.

“There are only two charging points and they take all day to charge your car.

“We need more charging points and quicker ones too which give you a full charge in only 45 minutes.”