Harrods has taken delivery of its first fully-electric DAF XD Electric 270 as it looks to decarbonise its logistics operations across London and the south of England.
Supplied by long-standing rental and contract hire partner, Alltruck, the delivery of the 4×2 rigid at 20-tonne GVW marks a major step in Harrods’ sustainability strategy.
As part of an 18-month evaluation programme, the luxury department store has also placed an order for a DAF XB Electric 4×2 rigid at 12 tonnes GVW, while an XD Electric tractor unit will be taken later this year for initial trials.
Powered by a four-pack battery system delivering 420kWh, the DAF XD Electric 270 achieves a 200-mile single-charge range.
Rapid charging to 100% takes 90 minutes, while a 20%-80% charge is reached in under an hour.
Due to the XD Electric’s 10-tonne front axle and rearward battery placement, payload requirements remain uncompromised despite the weight penalty.
The truck will operate daily between Harrods’ iconic Knightsbridge store and its Thatcham distribution centre – completing two round trips on a single charge – with plans to extend to Harrods’ H beauty stores across the south.
Camilla Cross, Distribution Operations Manager – Transport & Facilities at Harrods, said: “Harrods is a world-famous name, and our logistics operation must reflect that standard.
“We’ve been exploring ways to reduce our environmental impact while maintaining the exceptional service our customers expect.
“This DAF XD Electric is the first electric truck capable of meeting our demanding route between Knightsbridge and Thatcham on a single charge – and it opens-up opportunities to serve our regional H beauty stores, too.
“This delivery is an important milestone in our journey to a lower-carbon future.”
