In March 2023, we took another step in our commitment to the environment by announcing the purchase of our first electric 100% truck. The goal? To drastically reduce the CO2 emissions generated per journey.
At present, about 85% of the urban population of the European Union is exposed to pollution levels well above the maximum levels recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
In the face of these figures, the 'Fir for 55' standard is what ISL is working towards every day. The goal is clear: to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030.
However, once the goal has been set, it is time to assess the starting point and the means available.
What is the status of electric heavy mobility?
Although lorries account for 2% of all vehicles in circulation, 23% of carbon emissions from road transport come from heavy duty vehicles. Among them, 33% exceed the legal limit of CO2 emissions released into the atmosphere in the European Union.
The statistics support the need for a change which, given the current situation, is challenging. It is worth noting that the share of electric trucks in Europe is 0.6%. In fact, as reported by the European vehicle manufacturers' association ACEA, diesel-powered trucks will remain the majority in the coming years.
However, although gradually, electric mobility is gaining ground. In this regard, sales of electric trucks have increased fivefold in Europe in the first quarter of 2023, to almost 1,000 units.
ISL's personal commitment
Focused on achieving the objectives set by Europe, In Side Logistics has opted for Volvo Trucks technology to begin its transition to a more efficient and efficient greener heavy fleet and respectful of the planet.
This first truck, which already serves as a spearhead for the incorporation of future acquisitions, was not the only novelty. We have also developed a 100kW charger, prepared for the simultaneous charging of two trucks.
With an investment of 250,000 euros, considering the subsidy - 200,000 euros - and the cost of preparing the loading area - 50,000 euros - both complement a strategy that has previously seen the incorporation of five 100% electric light-duty vehicles used for the last mile.
In addition, through our new facilities, we will have our own transformation centre, which will give us a load for 10 to 15 more trucks.
Collaboration as the only way forward
With a commitment to sustainability at its core, Volvo's 44 tn model has strengthened In Side Logistics' relationship with its customer Aranco.
The Spanish company, with more than 35 years of experience specialising in packaging services, has incorporated the new asset into its transport operations. In doing so, it has managed to replace the daily load that was done with a combustion truck with an electric model.
In this sense, taking into account that the distance from In Side Logistics to the Aranco facilities in Massamagrell is approximately 31 kilometres, the arrival of this new piece to the logistical puzzle translates into:
- The reduction of 21,772.082 g of CO2 per trip.
- We optimise journeys by filling the maximum capacity of the lorry (33 pallets).
Future prospects
In Side Logistics' new electric truck is living proof that, in the future, mobility will either be more electric or it won't be.
The outlook shared by most experts points to five factors that support this forecast:
- Emission reduction policies. EU countries have set ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As part of these efforts, policies and regulations have been implemented to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, including trucks.
- Charging infrastructure is expanding. The charging infrastructure for electric vehicles is growing steadily in Europe. Fast and ultra-fast charging stations are being installed in strategic areas such as motorways, car parks and logistics centres.
- Technological advances and cost reductions. Battery technology is improving rapidly, allowing electric trucks to offer greater range and more significant charging capacity.
- Environmental awareness and sustainability. There is growing concern about the environmental impact of the freight transport industry.
- Incentives and government support. European governments are implementing a variety of incentives and support programmes to promote the adoption of electric trucks.
The transformation and evolution of traditional textiles is part of their survival. Therefore, for #readyforyourfuture logistics, it is essential to have partners who share the same vision, with respect for the environment and communities at the heart of business strategies.
