Tesco is using an electric vehicle (EV) to make deliveries from its distribution centres to more than 400 London stores.
The supermarket giant said the lorry, made by Renault Trucks, would replace diesel-fuelled transport on 30,000 miles of journeys per year.
With a range of 130 miles, different temperature zones and an equal payload to the diesel-based alternative, the EV will remove 23 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions per annum, according to Tesco.
Further electric lorries are expected to come on stream in the coming months as the retailer looks to comply with zero-emission zones in urban areas.
Tesco is also working with Volta Trucks on a prototype full-electric lorry with a central driver’s seat and cameras replacing wing mirrors to maximise visibility.
Adding electric delivery lorries to its fleet will contribute to Tesco’s efforts to achieve net zero emissions in its own operations by 2035.
Electric heavy freight articulated trucks began moving products between Cardiff rail terminal and Tesco’s distribution centre in Magor earlier this year.
Tesco UK and Ireland chief executive Jason Tarry said: “We all want to see improved air quality and less pollution in our towns and cities, and electric vehicles will play a crucial role in achieving this.
“The Tesco distribution network is one of the largest in the UK and provides us with a great opportunity to roll out new technologies like this industry-leading E-Tech electric truck from Renault Trucks.
“Together with our switch to electric home-delivery vans, and rolling out electric vehicle charge points for our customers, we’re really excited about the improvements we’re making across our business, and our transition to electric vehicles.”
Renault Trucks UK and Ireland managing director Carlos Rodrigues added: “We are delighted that Tesco has chosen to partner with Renault Trucks on its journey to net zero and selected the E-Tech D-Wide for its first fully electric model to move refrigerated goods more quietly and with zero emissions across the Greater London area.”
Image courtesy of Tesco
