A NEW six-figure scheme involving electric delivery vehicles is to be based in Warrington.

Delivery provider DX has launched a three-year project to acquire a fleet of electric vehicles for use in a partnership with Ikea.

The Swedish furniture giant recently celebrated 35 years in existence at its Warrington store off the M62 in Gemini.

DX has recently invested £750,000, with further investment planned over the next three years, to establish an initial fleet of more than 60 electric vehicles for IKEA’s home-delivery services.

The new fleet comprises award-winning vans, which have a single-charge range in excess of 219 miles with zero-output emissions.

Paul Ibbetson, managing director of DX Freight, said: “We are very pleased to have launched our first fleet of electric vehicles for Ikea.

“Over the next three years, we will be building on this to provide IKEA with continued, first-class delivery and logistics services that are more environmentally friendly.”

John Welsh, fulfilment sourcing manager at Ikea UK, added: “DX is the largest provider of two-person home delivery services for Ikea in the UK.

“We are excited to have their first electric vans with zero-output emissions on the road for us and our customers.

“Ikea’s goal of reaching 100 per cent zero-emission, last-mile deliveries by 2025 will be achieved through working together with those who share our vision.

“I am delighted that DX has already been fundamental in delivering some of the first milestones in our journey.”