Vatican City State is taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint and embrace sustainability by transitioning its fleet of vehicles to electric. In line with its “Ecological Conversion 2030” plan, the Vatican aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 through various initiatives, including the adoption of electric vehicles.
To help in this transition, the Vatican has entered into a partnership with Volkswagen. Through Volkswagen Financial Services, the carmaker will supply the Vatican with nearly 40 electric vehicles from its ID electric vehicle family, with the deliveries set to commence in early next year. The Volkswagen ID.3 hatchbacks have already been handed over, and other Volkswagen Group brands will provide additional vehicles in the later stages of the agreement.
The Vatican’s plan also includes the establishment of a charging network within the State and surrounding areas for use by its employees. Additionally, the Vatican pledges to meet its energy requirements using renewable sources, further aligning with its commitment to environmental sustainability.
The Vatican City State, occupying a small portion of land in Rome, Italy, has been proactive in addressing environmental issues. Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church and resident of the Vatican, has been vocal about the importance of environmental conservation. In the past, the Pope has received low-emission cars, such as the hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai, and Nissan has also supported the Vatican’s environmental initiatives by providing an all-electric Leaf hatchback.
Volkswagen’s involvement in supplying electric vehicles to the Vatican is part of its broader commitment to electric mobility. The carmaker delivered over 330,000 electric vehicles to customers worldwide in the previous year, solidifying its position as a key player in the electric vehicle market.
With this partnership between the Vatican and Volkswagen, the transition to electric vehicles in the Vatican City State represents a significant step towards a more sustainable future.
FAQ:
1. What is the Vatican’s plan for transitioning to electric vehicles?
The Vatican aims to transition its fleet of vehicles to electric by 2030 as part of its “Ecological Conversion 2030” plan. The plan also includes the establishment of a charging network and the use of renewable energy sources.
2. How many electric vehicles will Volkswagen supply to the Vatican?
Volkswagen will supply the Vatican with nearly 40 electric vehicles from its ID electric vehicle family. The deliveries will begin in early next year.
3. Why is the Vatican transitioning to electric vehicles?
The Vatican is pursuing a sustainable future and aims to reduce its carbon footprint. Transitioning to electric vehicles is one of the measures adopted by the Vatican to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
4. What other car brands have supported the Vatican’s environmental initiatives?
In addition to Volkswagen, other car brands such as Toyota and Nissan have supported the Vatican’s environmental initiatives. Toyota gifted a hydrogen-powered Mirai, specially modified to emit only water, to Pope Francis, and Nissan delivered an all-electric Leaf hatchback.