Trade retailer Screwfix has announced the addition of two electric HGVs (heavy goods vehicles) to its logistics operations.
Screwfix called the move a “milestone” in its continued commitment to reducing carbon emissions as it aims to reach net zero for Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions by 2040. It marks the first set of electric HGVs to join the company’s fleet.
According to Screwfix, which is part of the Kingfisher Group, the new trucks have a range of 200 miles per charge, depending on driving style, road conditions, and weather. They will operate on shorter-range routes from the Lichfield distribution centre (DC), servicing Screwfix stores across the West Midlands and midlands regions, including into Birmingham.
Screwfix said each electric HGV can complete a route with up to five deliveries before requiring a recharge, which aligns them with the current operational efficiency of the retailer’s existing fleet. It has promised that vehicles will be used twice within a 24-hour period, ensuring optimal productivity.
In support, Screwfix has installed charging stations at its Lichfield DC. The electricity used for charging is sourced from renewable energy, including power generated from the DC’s large solar panel installation.
Of Screwfix’s current fleet, 85% is powered by hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) – a renewable fuel made from waste products, which is also used by businesses such as department store group Harrods.
Emma Ross, director of logistics operations at Screwfix, said the business is “committed to driving positive change and leading the way in sustainable logistics”.
“The addition of electric HGVs to our fleet is a testament to our dedication to reducing our environmental impact, while still delivering the exceptional service our customers expect,” she explained.
“The addition of these electric vehicles to our existing HVO-fuelled fleet is another step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.”
Screwfix reported it has halved its direct carbon emissions (Scope 1 and 2) since 2021, transitioning 85% of its delivery fleet to HVO and replacing fossil fuel heating in over 639 stores with air source heat pumps. The goal is to further reduce these emissions within two years while addressing Scope 3 emissions.
Read more about electric HGVs on Green Retail World
[image credit: Screwfix/Kingfisher Group]
