DistriFresh, the logistics subsidiary of Vion, has put its first fully electric truck (E-truck) into operation, taking the next step in making its logistics processes more sustainable. The E-truck operates in combination with an electric refrigerated trailer (E-cooler) on one of its regular supermarket distribution routes in the Netherlands. As a result, supermarkets on this route are now supplied six days a week with 100% emission-free transport.
Vion’s climate ambition is to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to an absolute minimum – net zero. Investing in the electrification of the fleet directly contributes to achieving this goal.
Next step towards CO₂-neutral transport
As a logistics service provider, DistriFresh continuously works to reduce its CO₂ footprint. The fleet is being modernised with more efficient and CO₂-neutral vehicles. Since their introduction in 2019, DistriFresh has already replaced 20 conventional refrigerated trailers with E-coolers. With the addition of the first E-truck, transport on this route is now fully emission-free.
Through the deployment of this electric combination, DistriFresh – in partnership with Trans-Imex – is anticipating future developments regarding zero-emission urban deliveries.
Benefits of the E-truck and E-trailer
The E-truck and E-trailer are fully electrically powered and offer several advantages. They operate emission-free, meaning they produce no CO₂, soot or particulate matter. In addition, both vehicles have a very low noise level of less than 56 decibels. To ensure safety, the E-truck is equipped with specially developed sound systems to alert cyclists and pedestrians.
Using this combination for supermarket distribution also has a positive impact on the driving range, which reaches up to 350 kilometres due to the relatively light weight of consumer-packaged goods. This enables smooth and reliable delivery of fresh and frozen products. The E-truck’s 540 kWh battery can be charged from 0% to 100% in just two hours. The E-cooler automatically recharges while driving through recovered braking energy.
The new E-truck marks another important step towards a more sustainable logistics process. In addition, a further 15 to 20 conventional refrigerated trailers will be replaced with E-coolers later this autumn.