CEVA Logistics is using its Urban Distribution Hub in Dartford, Kent to undertake an electric vehicle trial for lorries delivering into central London.
The third-party logistics company has partnered with Tevva, a UK-based developer of modular electrification systems for medium duty commercial vehicles, to undertake trials of the equipment to research which can deliver the best results.
The overall aim of the 3-6 month trial is to find ways to reduce the impact of commercial vehicles on air, noise and congestion.
Two 12-tonne vehicles will operate from Dartford to provide daily, central London deliveries to Guys & St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.
One of the vehicles has a chill/refrigeration unit within it, and the other is a standard layout truck.
The telematics-based data produced by the trial will reportedly enable both companies to better understand how the vehicles can be used in future to meet customer demands.
Furthermore, all research generated by the trial will be used to shape the next steps around the introduction of more EVs and of what type into the company’s fleet.
The trial also supports Transport for London’s FreightLab initiative, which aims to tackle congestion and keep goods moving in London and in which CEVA Logistics is a launch partner.
CEVA has also become the first partner in Tevva’s Electrify initiative, which uses real-world operational data to offer practical solutions for companies looking to use EVs in their fleets.
CEVA said that the introduction of electric trucks into its fleet is a key part of the company’s ongoing commitment to reducing emissions in the supply chain.
Mathieu Friedberg, CEO, CEVA Logistics, said: “With this ambitious trial and partnership, CEVA Logistics contributes to the CMA CGM Group’s leadership in the energy transition of the industry, with a strategy combining operational performance and environmental excellence.
“We look forward to other like-minded companies joining us on the path to environmental excellence.”
Want to learn more about how electric vehicles are transforming urban logistics? CiTTi Exhibition takes place on the 3rd and 4th of June at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena. Register your interest to attend at www.cittiexhibition.co.uk
