GLEN Forrest resident Eric Smith presented during the Shire of Mundaring’s October council meeting’s public question time, asking about ongoing replacement of vehicles and major equipment and suggested newer technology and longer warranties made frequent turnover unnecessary.

Mr Smith said the shire appeared to be spending substantial amounts on vehicles that could have remained in use longer.

He asked why the shire continued to rely on traditional mileage and time-based replacement schedules despite modern improvements.

Shire of Mundaring chief executive officer Jason Whiteaker said a new fleet manager was being recruited, and reviewing vehicle turnover rates would be among their first tasks.

“The parameters are around 100,000km or four to five years, which is pushing the changeover out to a reasonable time period,” he said.

“We are looking to be more strategic moving forward and will be developing a fleet plan to present to council.”

Mr Smith also asked whether the shire planned to purchase more electric vehicles (EVs), noting hybrid vehicles might offer better performance and value.

“Why are we purchasing high priced utilities like Isuzus when a less expensive utility could be purchased for the same type of use?” he said.

“In other words, are we getting our value for money in our ratepayer’s vehicle and equipment purchases?”

Shire of Mundaring built and natural environment director Shane Purdy said the shire was reviewing its fleet with a focus on future electric vehicle integration.

He confirmed the shire had trialled some fully electric vehicles in the fleet already and was also contemplating an electric utility.

“There is currently a BYD available for that and the shire is looking at that as a trial also,” he said.

“When finalising the fleet review, light plant will also be included.”

Following questions sent by Echo News this week, a shire spokesperson said the shire was committed to reducing its operational emissions and had been progressively transitioning to more efficient and sustainable fleet options.

“A new coordinator fleet and workshop is expected to commence within the next five weeks,” they said.

“The fleet review has already been completed and is guiding future decisions on vehicle management and replacement.

“At this stage, the shire is not considering changes to current replacement intervals, which are typically set at four to five years or around 100,000km.

“The shire currently operates three plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

“Expansion of the fleet will continue to align with the emissions reduction strategy 2024, which sets a target to reduce corporate greenhouse gas emissions by 70 per cent below 2016/17 levels by 2030.

“Early results from the EV trials have been very positive, showing clear cost savings and strong operational performance across day-to-day use.”

Last year, Grants set to electrify LGAs reported both Kalamunda and Mundaring local governments received a grant to help transition their fleets to electric vehicles.

It was reported that the state government committed $1 million towards WALGA’s project, with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency committing $3.51m, while the 22 councils have committed to spending $7.68m on the project, according to WALGA.