Grob Group, a UK-based conglomerate, has announced a complete switch to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) across its delivery vehicles, marking a significant step towards its 2030 net zero emissions target.

A LeFactory delivery vehicle, now powered by Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil.

A LeFactory delivery vehicle, now powered by Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil.

The company has become one of the first in the HVAC industry to fully transition to HVO, with its fleet of 10 delivery vehicles—including two Mercedes trucks, four DAF Trucks, and three vans—now powered by the renewable fuel.

According to Certas Energy, the company’s official fuel supplier, this strategic move is projected to save approximately 78 tonnes of carbon emissions in 2024. The transition follows the successful implementation of HVO in the company’s Fire Protection vehicles in December 2023.

Grob Group described the decision as a “no-brainer”, citing several key advantages including substantial carbon reduction, narrowing cost differentials, and the high expense of electric vehicle procurement.

HVO, a renewable diesel alternative, can potentially reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional fossil diesel.

The fuel switch is part of a broader sustainability strategy that includes becoming the first UK industry provider of ‘green’ steel and investing in a 245kWp solar system at its Eastbourne facility.

A Certas Energy vehicle delivering HVO to Grob Group company, LeFactory.

A Certas Energy vehicle delivering HVO to Grob Group company, LeFactory.

“At Grob Group, transitioning our entire fleet to HVO was an easy decision, driven by both the economic and logistical advantages,” said Olivier Grob, CEO and Owner. “We recognise the significant role businesses like ours must play in addressing climate cChange.”

Darren Holloway, Commercial Director for Energy Solutions at Certas Energy, added: “We are pleased to be able to support Grob Group and early-adopters of HVO to meet their Net Zero goals. This transition fuel will continue to play a central role in helping to decarbonise road transport.”

Steve Hancock, Grob Group’s Sustainability Manager, noted that switching to HVO directly addresses Scope 1 emissions and provides a competitive advantage.

The company has already received approximately 9,000 litres of HVO this year, with customers reportedly showing increasing interest in the company’s co2 reduction efforts.