A new electric vehicle (EV) car hire scheme has officially launched in Abergavenny, providing residents with affordable access to zero-emission transport without the costs and responsibilities of car ownership.
The scheme is operated by TrydaNi, a community-owned electric car-sharing service that operates across Wales. TrydaNi’s EV car clubs offer the convenience of using a car when needed, without the hassle of owning one.
Gary Smith of Greener Abergavenny explained that the initiative was first proposed by the organisation and took just over a year to bring to fruition.
“We worked hard to raise awareness of the scheme and generate sufficient local interest to make Abergavenny a priority location for TrydaNi. We then worked closely with Abergavenny Town Council and Monmouthshire County Council to identify a suitable location for the vehicle and charging infrastructure.
“We are delighted to have led the introduction of TrydaNi into Monmouthshire. The site has space for two vehicles, meaning that as demand grows, a second EV could be added. Members can also book electric vehicles operated by TrydaNi at nine other locations across Wales.
“We hope local residents will take advantage of this opportunity, and that other towns across Monmouthshire will now follow our lead.”
John Townend, Chair of TrydaNi, said:
“We’re really pleased to introduce this service to the community of Abergavenny. I am hopeful of a strong uptake and that people will want to be part of a movement that shares resources and provides a sustainable transport solution.”
Tom Simone, Chief Community Member Officer at TrydaNi, added:
“We are delighted to launch the car club in Abergavenny and to be working closely with Greener Abergavenny and Monmouthshire County Council. We look forward to seeing the scheme grow and become a valuable community asset.”
The vehicle, a Kia Niro EV, is located at Fairfield Car Park. Membership is free, with users paying an hourly hire charge plus a mileage-based fee. The aim is to provide affordable access to a zero-emission vehicle that can be booked quickly and easily through the TrydaNi app.
TrydaNi’s mission is to deliver zero-emission car sharing across Wales in a way that is affordable, convenient and beneficial to local communities.
Each car club has its own friendly WhatsApp group, which members can choose to join, while TrydaNi’s support team is available by phone from 8am to 10pm, seven days a week, on 0300 373 5500. Vehicles are booked and unlocked via the app. Anyone without a smartphone is encouraged to contact TrydaNi, which can provide alternative access arrangements.
Deputy Mayor Councillor Gareth Wilde welcomed the initiative, saying:
“This is an ethical initiative that uses cutting-edge technology to provide shared resources in a sustainable way. We hope it will help reduce the number of vehicles on our roads while giving residents access to affordable and environmentally friendly transport.”
