Amazon has put into service the first zero-emission trucks from its order of Mercedes-Benz eActros 600s made earlier this year.
Once fully deployed, Amazon’s UK operation will have 160 eHGVs – the largest number of electric trucks in its global transportation network.
The 40-tonne trucks, operated by Amazon’s carrier partners, will transport products between Amazon logistics hubs across the UK, travelling the equivalent of about 70,000 miles per year each, on average.
A handful of these were part-funded through Amazon’s participation in the UK Government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme, coordinated in partnership with Innovate UK.
With a range of more than 310 miles when fully charged, the Mercedes-Benz trucks can transport up to a 22-tonne load per journey between Amazon’s fulfilment centres, sort centres and delivery stations.
To support its electric fleet, Amazon has also installed fast charging points at its UK sites, with 360kW chargers that can charge the 40-tonne trucks from 20-80% battery capacity in just over an hour.
The company is also adding 800 new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter electric vans across the UK over the coming months and extending pedestrian deliveries to the London Borough of Camden.
Nicola Fyfe, EU VP of Amazon Logistics said, “The first vehicles from our record-breaking eHGV order are now on Britain’s roads, transporting products between our hubs.
“This marks a major milestone in our journey to decarbonise our UK transportation network.
“These trucks, alongside more electric vans and on-foot deliveries, are a win for our customers, the environment, and our business.”
