Spains Hall Estate, the 2,000-acre estate near Braintree, has recently invested in the ‘Beast’ - Electric Wheels new All Terrain Utility Vehicle (UTV) - thanks to funding from Low Carbon South East (LoCase) and Braintree District Council.
 
As part of Spains Hall Estate’s commitment to repurposing its land to a more environmentally sustainable future, the estate is leading the transition away from fossil fuel powered agricultural machinery towards using electric vehicles.
 
‘The Beast’ is Electric Wheels' largest and most powerful 4x4 electric vehicle with speeds of up to 37 mph, a 57-mile range and five and a half hours of charge time. This robust, multi-use and versatile vehicle is suited to tackle impressive inclines, tow heavy loads and carry up to four passengers in comfort.
 
Purchasing the new electric vehicle was made possible by a generous grant from Low Carbon South East (LoCase), a partnership programme which runs across the South East of England, supported by the European Regional Development Fund. LoCase helps businesses achieve the dual aim of protecting the environment and encouraging low carbon solutions as well as increased profitability.
 
Archie Ruggles-Brise, Estate Manager at Spains Hall Estate said,

“At Spains Hall Estate we pride ourselves in our nature-first approach and are passionate about redefining land management by transforming traditional agricultural farming into a bio-diverse and sustainable habitat. As part of this, our ambition is to move towards electric power across our whole vehicle fleet. We have been delighted with ‘The Beast’s capacity, power, and comfort. It allows us to haul around heavy loads, go anywhere we want and transport visitors such as funders, partners, and other VIPs on estate and beaver tours. It’s a vehicle which reflects our own beliefs about sustainability and it’s great that it’s one of the first to be put into action in Braintree District.”
 
Chris Hurdle at Electric Wheels said, 

“When Spains Hall Estate approached Electric Wheels about our vehicles we wanted to ensure they got the right vehicle for their needs. We lent Archie a couple of different models to try, but after a month it was clear he needed something more robust which had a large pulling power. The ‘Beast’ is the largest and most powerful vehicle we do – it does everything a diesel machine does and more. With zero emissions, our all-electric vehicles are aimed at those who are looking to make a more environmentally informed choice, whilst meeting the performance demands required of utility vehicles.”
 
Cllr Wendy Schmitt, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and The Environment Braintree District Council said,

“This is another great example of how Archie Ruggles-Brise and Spains Hall Estate are embracing different methods on how to reduce their carbon footprint to help tackle climate change. It’s always exciting to hear about the fantastic work that is being done on the estate. First it was the introduction of beavers to build natural dams as part of a flood management programme and now it’s the Beast! We are very proud to have a local landowner in our district who is so passionate about protecting our natural environment. Archie is also a valued member of the Council’s Climate Change Working Group and always contributes in a positive way with his advice and knowledge on land and estate management issues. If your business is looking to invest in new technology to help decrease your impact on the environment, or if you would like to access advice and support on a whole range of business issues please contact the economic development team at Braintree District Council ecodev@braintree.gov.uk.”