Tesco, one of the UK’s leading supermarkets, is rolling out its first 18-tonne 100% electric truck, a Renault Trucks E-Tech D Wide, using Lancashire-based Solomon Commercials’ Slipstream refrigeration body.
The new zero-emission refrigerated electric truck is now delivering from Tesco’s Dagenham distribution centre to more than 400 stores in Greater London. Further electric vehicles are planned to enter service in the coming months.
Fully electric, the E-Tech D Wide is eligible to operate in the capital’s Ultra Low Emission Zone and Congestion Charge Zone without incurring charges, while zero tailpipe emissions and low traffic noise make it ideal for Tesco’s urban deliveries.
Tesco’s E-Tech D Wide vehicle features Carrier TRS Syberia 11 refrigeration equipment with power converter and is powered directly from the vehicle batteries via Renault Trucks’ 600v TVJB Fridge power supply unit. The vehicle has multi-temperature zones, allowing the truck to move stock with differing temperature needs.
Jason Tarry, Tesco UK and ROI CEO 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 charging points for our customers, we’re really excited about the improvements we’re making across our business and our transition to electric vehicles.”
Carlos Rodrigues, Managing Director, Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, added: “We’re delighted that Tesco, one of the UK’s leading supermarkets, 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.”
The vehicle will use a Solomon Commercials’ Slipstream body specifically designed to optimise load while maximising aerodynamics to cut drag and improve vehicle range.
Anthony Clegg, Sales Director at Solomon Commercials, concluded: “More and more customers are actively looking to introduce carbon neutral policies and to minimise the impact of their vehicles on the environment. We’ve been working with clients, such as Tesco, for many years with these objectives in mind and we’re proud to play our part.
“We can see the transition to commercial electric vehicles picking up pace, particularly with the Government wanting to reach stringent emissions targets and to create clean air cities. Electric vehicles will play an important role in ensuring this is achieved.”
