Retailer Marks & Spencer has introduced 85 zero- or lower-emission vehicles to its logistics fleet in the UK, as part of its Plan A roadmap to Net Zero by 2040.
The new fleet includes five zero-emission battery electric Renault HGVs that will transport goods between M&S’s Clothing & Home distribution center in Welham Green and 30 stores in London and the South East. The 42-tonne trucks will replace diesel-powered vehicles, the retailer noted.
Elsewhere, it has also rolled out compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles to its Clothing & Home logistics business, as part of a collaboration with IVECO, as well as introducing 50 CNG-powered vehicles to its Food logistics business.
According to the retailer, these biomethane-powered CNG lorries can cut CO2 emissions by up to 85% compared to traditional diesel engines.
New vehicle technologies
“Adapting our logistics network is vital in achieving our Plan A Net Zero ambitions,” commented Julian Bailey, head of group transport at M&S. “We’re committed to reducing carbon emissions from our transport, and through collaboration we are able to reduce carbon, save energy, and drive operational efficiencies across the business.
“By trialling new vehicle technologies, we’re able to deliver our products, which are sourced and made with care, to our depots and stores with a lower impact on our planet.”
As a result of the investment, close to 10% of Marks & Spencer’s total fleet will be powered by sustainable transport, namely zero- or lower-emission vehicles.
It added that its ongoing investments are aimed at reducing carbon emissions across its operations, in line with its net zero ambitions. Other Plan A projects include the production of green hydrogen through wind and solar power, funded by its Plan A Accelerator Fund.
‘Biggest investment’
Lilian Greenwood MP, Future of Roads Minister for the UK, highlighted the government’s role in supporting the transition to zero-emission vehicles, saying that it is “fantastic to see M&S add five zero emission electric lorries to their fleet […] – the biggest investment of this kind in the world.
“This comes on top of our £2.3 billion boost to help industry and consumers switch to electric vehicles, harnessing the transition to net zero by supporting jobs, attracting investment and making Britain a clean energy superpower.” Read more here.
