Tesco is working with Volta Trucks on a prototype full-electric lorry. The Volta Zero was specifically designed to help tackle the problem of emissions in urban areas as well as improving road safety as a result of its purpose-built, ground-up design.
The Volta Zero allows the driver better visibility of pedestrians and other vulnerable road users, through its glasshouse-style cab and the replacement of wing mirrors with cameras. This minimisation of blind spots allows for safer operations, especially in urban areas.
Tesco is aiming for net zero emissions in its own operations by 2035, thus the addition of such vehicles with aid in acheiving such goals.
In January this year, Tesco became the first UK retailer to add electric heavy freight articulated trucks to its fleet, that transport products emissions-free between Cardiff rail terminal and its distribution centre in Magor.
Also, Tesco recently became the first retailer to launch a zero-emission electric lorry to make deliveries from its distribution centres to stores in city centres.The first electrically-powered lorry of its kind, The Renault Trucks D Wide E-Tech, is now delivering to more than 400 stores in Greater London,
“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.” said Jason Tarry, Tesco UK and ROI CEO.
