Defender Teams Up with Glastonbury, Leading the Way for Environmentally Conscious Festivals
Defender, the renowned off-road vehicle brand, is set to play a significant role at Glastonbury 2024 by contributing to the festival's sustainability efforts. The introduction of electric plug-in hybrid vehicles charged with solar energy from the onsite photovoltaic array is a key part of Glastonbury's drive to become a more environmentally conscious event. These vehicles will operate in zero tailpipe emissions EV mode throughout the festival.
Super-Sized Defender Fleet for Glastonbury 2024
Defender is expanding its fleet for the upcoming festival, with 25 Defender 110 P400e plug-in electric hybrids ensuring headline acts reach the Pyramid Stage and over 100 other stages across the site on time. Additionally, 10 Defender 110 mild-hybrids will support the operations team, enabling festival staff and first responders to navigate the expansive 900-acre site regardless of weather conditions.
Supporting the New Volunteer Scheme Pilot
Defender will also support Glastonbury Festival's new volunteer scheme as the Official Vehicle Partner. This scheme aims to reduce social, cultural, and financial barriers to volunteering by covering all associated costs. Ten charitable and community organizations, including the Refugee Council and Plan International UK, will collaborate to provide work experience and training opportunities. Volunteers will undertake roles such as stewarding, waterpoint management, and catering, with the potential to earn professional qualifications in food hygiene and outdoor work.
Defender's fleet of plug-in electric hybrids will ensure volunteers can easily navigate the site, transporting them from nearby train and bus stations to their campsites. The scheme will accommodate up to 100 volunteers, with support from other event partners providing clothing, food, materials, and equipment.
Testimonials from Participants
Zoe Shadan, a project worker with the Refugee Council, expressed excitement about the scheme:
"Our refugee clients will gain useful skills in a unique work environment, experience the diverse offerings of the festival, and engage with a new community. We are grateful that all essentials are provided, making the festival accessible for everyone."
Meera, a youth activist with Plan International UK, shared her experience:
"Volunteering at Glastonbury is a fantastic opportunity to grow confidence and make a difference. The new Period Dignity initiative and arriving in Defender electric hybrids have made this experience even more memorable."
Defender and Glastonbury: A Historic Partnership
Defender's go-anywhere capability makes it ideal for the rural landscape of Worthy Farm, where the Eavis family has organized the festival for over 50 years. Historical photos show a Land Rover Series IIA at the first Glastonbury Festival in 1970, and today, Michael Eavis still uses his iconic bright red Defender 90. This partnership continues to thrive as Defender contributes to reducing carbon emissions at the festival.
The Defender P400e plug-in electric hybrid 4x4 offers a real-world range of 32 miles and zero tailpipe emissions in EV-mode. Additionally, JLR has partnered with energy storage startup Allye Energy to develop a portable Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) using second-life PHEV batteries. These systems will store energy for the Defender fleet when parked at the Defender Camp, further supporting Glastonbury's sustainability goals.
Looking Ahead
Mark Cameron, Managing Director of Defender, emphasized the partnership's impact:
"Defender is part of Glastonbury's DNA, inspiring adventure and positive community impact. This year, we are proud to update the festival's fleet to Electric Hybrid power and support the Volunteer Scheme, helping young people and those benefiting from employability training take on various festival roles."
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