The Charlotte, North Carolina, Code Enforcement Division is advancing sustainability goals 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.

Lowering Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Fleet Changes

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, which advertises a 220-mile range per charge, is a jump up from the division's initial electric vehicle, the 2012 Nissan Leaf, which had a reported 75-mile range.

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

Continuing Sustainabilitiy Goals Throughout the Fleet

These new electric vehicles, designated for use by code enforcement trainers, will also provide a space for on-the-job training.

“Senior inspectors, responsible for training new hires, will be using these vehicles," said 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 plans to continue expanding its electric vehicle fleet, aiming to achieve a fully electric fleet by 2030.