Tesco has reached a notable milestone in its quest for sustainability, unveiling its 500th electric home delivery van.
- The newly launched van will operate from Sheffield Extra, marking the first fully electric fleet in Yorkshire.
- Tesco’s transition to electric vehicles has already eliminated 15 million diesel miles, significantly reducing carbon emissions.
- The retailer aims to operate a fully electric delivery fleet by 2030, aligning with its 2035 carbon-neutral goals.
- Government support and strategic initiatives are accelerating Tesco’s sustainable transition across the UK.
Tesco has reached a significant point in its sustainability journey by launching its 500th electric home delivery van. This initiative is part of the retailer’s broader commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2035 across its operational scope. Tesco’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint is exemplified by the integration of electric vehicles in its delivery network.
The latest van will operate from Tesco’s Sheffield Extra store, positioning it as the first location in Yorkshire to boast a fully electric delivery fleet. With 14 electric vehicles, the store executes around 2,500 deliveries weekly. This development highlights Tesco’s strategic move towards sustainable logistics as it transitions from diesel to electric power.
Since the introduction of its first electric van in Greater London in 2020, Tesco has remarkably replaced 15 million diesel delivery miles. This shift has effectively reduced the retailer’s carbon emissions by approximately 7,500 tonnes, showcasing notable advancements in environmental responsibility. Currently, over 30 of Tesco’s outlets employ fully electric vans, contributing to cleaner air quality in urban areas while cutting down emissions.
Tesco’s fleet, comprising 5,500 home delivery vehicles, serves a vast clientele of 150,000 customers daily across the UK. In a pioneering move last year, Tesco launched the UK’s first zero-emission electric lorry, displacing 30,000 diesel-driven miles annually with cleaner alternatives. These efforts form a crucial part of Tesco’s strategy to foster a greener economy.
By 2030, Tesco intends to operate an entirely electric delivery fleet in the UK, equating to the removal of 22,000 conventional cars from the roads yearly. This ambition aligns with its overarching goal of attaining carbon neutrality by the designated 2035 timeline. As part of the support from governmental frameworks, over 40,000 electric vans and HGVs have been facilitated through initiatives such as the Plug-in Van Grant, aiding businesses in their transition towards decarbonisation.
Comments from Jason Tarry, Tesco’s CEO for the UK and ROI, underscore the importance of these developments, not only in reducing emissions but also in enhancing air quality within the communities Tesco serves. Decarbonisation Minister Jesse Norman adds a perspective on how such steps are integral to the UK’s broader Green growth agenda.
Tesco’s progressive leap towards a sustainable future with electric delivery vans reflects its enduring commitment to environmental responsibility.
