Intermodal transport and supply chain logistics provider, ECS, is deploying electric trucks in London for a 16-month first-and-last-mile trial.
ECS is carrying out the trial using electric trucks in a bid to cut emissions and support a rail-focused logistics strategy. The aim is to not only reduce CO2 emissions but also make the supply chain more sustainable.
The vehicles are operating between ports and customer sites, handling a variety of goods from consumer products to building materials.
Three months into the project, the trucks have already covered 9,200 miles, transporting as many as 329 loads from the ports of P&O Tilbury and CLdN Purfleet to 12 different customers.
All deliveries were made on time and ECS says the trucks have exceeded performance expectations. Although their range was initially estimated at 125 miles, one journey reached 168 miles, aided by route planning and adapted driving techniques.
ECS’s CEO Sven Pieters said: “Sustainability is embedded in our DNA. We therefore resolutely choose to use rail for as much transport as possible. Of course, this means we need an alternative for the first and last kilometres.
“We are convinced that the capabilities of electric trucks lend themselves perfectly to those short distances.”
ECS intends to analyse the full test results before deciding whether to expand its electric fleet. The company also continues to prioritise rail transport across its European operations.
The electric truck trial also aligns with the company’s strategy to reduce exposure to the EU Emissions Trading System, which will apply to road freight from 2027.
