Amazon has taken a significant step towards sustainable logistics by making the UK home to its largest fleet of electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) globally. The company has placed its largest-ever order for electric trucks in the UK, expanding its fleet from just nine to over 160 vehicles. This new fleet is expected to transport more than 300 million customer packages annually, marking a substantial shift towards zero-exhaust emission deliveries as part of Amazon's broader commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

The electric trucks include over 140 new Mercedes-Benz Truck eActros 600s and eight Volvo FM Battery Electric trucks, which will be deployed on high-mileage routes connecting Amazon fulfilment centres, sort centres, and delivery stations across the UK. Supporting the transition to electric, Amazon is investing in the necessary infrastructure by installing 360kW electric charging points capable of recharging the 40-tonne trucks from 20% to 80% within just over an hour. This infrastructure development is vital to maintaining efficient operations while reducing emissions.

Beyond road freight, Amazon is also utilising the UK's electric rail network to transport packages, a move designed to cut congestion and emissions further. In central London, the company has introduced on-foot deliveries using restockable trolleys, expanding its zero-emission delivery methods in densely populated urban areas. The expansion of electric vehicles will be complemented by the addition of 800 new electric vans and the extension of pedestrian deliveries, including to boroughs such as Camden.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasised the importance of Amazon's investment in electric trucks, noting that it “speaks volumes” about the UK's role in driving green transport innovation. She highlighted how the government’s £200 million investment in zero-emission lorries and supporting infrastructure is helping businesses grow while cleaning up the roads.

This initiative aligns with Amazon's broader sustainability efforts across Europe. The company has partnered with Mercedes-Benz Vans in a large-scale sustainable transportation programme, including the delivery of over 1,800 electric vans—comprising more than 1,200 eSprinter vans and 600 eVito vans—to its delivery fleet. These vehicles provide zero-emissions options tailored for various delivery needs, including those of Delivery Service Partners operating in areas requiring smaller vehicles.

Amazon's commitment to expanding its electric fleet and delivery methods underscores the increasing role of zero-emission logistics in reducing the environmental footprint of e-commerce. While the current UK order represents the largest in Amazon’s global transportation network, the company’s broader strategy involves significant advancements in green transport technology and infrastructure to meet ambitious climate goals by 2040.

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  • [1] (Evening Standard) - Paragraph 1, Paragraph 5
  • [2] (Amazon Press Release) - Paragraph 1, Paragraph 4
  • [3] (Amazon Environmental News) - Paragraph 2
  • [4] (Amazon Freight Newsroom) - Paragraph 2, Paragraph 4
  • [5] (Amazon UK Sustainability News) - Paragraph 2, Paragraph 4
  • [6] (ITV News) - Paragraph 3, Paragraph 5
  • [7] (Amazon Europe News) - Paragraph 6

Source: Noah Wire Services