City's Code Enforcement Adds Electric Ford F-150s to Fleet

Published on February 12, 2024

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Feb. 12, 2024) - The city's Code Enforcement Division is advancing sustainability by incorporating five new Ford F-150 Lightning electric vehicles into its fleet. This move is part of the city's commitment to the Sustainable and Resilient Charlotte by 2050 Resolution and the Strategic Energy Action Plan (SEAP), both of which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote the use of sustainable energy.

In 2018, the city set a goal through these initiatives to significantly lower its greenhouse gas emissions, with a key strategy being to switch the city's vehicle fleet to zero-carbon energy sources by 2030.

The addition of the Ford F-150 Lightnings, boasting a 220-mile range per charge, marks a significant improvement over the division's initial electric vehicle, the 2012 Nissan Leaf, which had a 75-mile range. “We began our journey towards sustainability in 2012 with the Nissan Leaf," explains Scott Edwards, Code Enforcement Coordinator. "Since then, we've added three propane trucks, two hybrid vehicles, and we're expecting more electric vehicles by fiscal year 2025.”

These new electric vehicles, designated for use by code enforcement trainers, will provide ample space for on-the-job training. “Senior inspectors, responsible for training new hires, will be using these vehicles," explains Edwards. "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.”

This enhancement is supported by the city’s development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and use of the ChargePoint app, which helps users locate citywide chargers.

Looking ahead, the city aims to continue expanding its electric vehicle fleet, aiming to achieve a fully electric fleet by 2030.