Biofuel HGV fleet delivers 'significant' cut in emissions for LKQ

LKQ UK and Ireland is set to cut its annual carbon emissions (CO2e) significantly, after transitioning its HGV logistics fleet to run on low carbon hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). 

The estimated saving of more than 4 million kilogrammes of CO2e per year, represents a significant contribution towards meeting LKQ’s overarching goal of achieving net zero scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2050.

The motor factor has already transitioned 67 HGVs to the low carbon fuel. The trucks form part of LKQ Euro Car Parts’ logistics fleet which completes 55,000 deliveries each day, transporting its 136,000-strong stock range from its major logistics hubs in Tamworth to its network of 280 branches. 

HVO is a fossil-free alternative to diesel, made from 100% renewable and sustainable resources, and tank-for-tank results in at least 80% less fossil-based carbon in the atmosphere than traditional diesel.

The initiative forms part of LKQ UK and Ireland’s broader investment into the sustainability of its 3,000-strong delivery fleet. 

The business also added 30 compressed natural gas Scania HGCs to its fleet during 2024, selected for improved fuel efficiency and additional benefits like better driveability and a quieter engine. This number is set to grow by a further 15 in the coming months. 

The business has also recently migrated a number of its light commercial vehicles (LCVs) to electric.

Stewart Giles, director of group logistics at LKQ UK and Ireland, said: “The sheer mileage that our HGVs cover makes them the ideal candidate for introducing biofuel to, because of the significant carbon savings that we’re able to achieve immediately. 

“Introducing biofuel works in tandem with other schemes to reduce our fleet’s emissions, enabling us to make headway towards our goal to operate sustainably at all levels of business.”

The optimisation of LKQ UK and Ireland’s delivery fleet is an ongoing mission, and comes after a 2024 partnership with Delivery Mates, piloting the use of e-scooters and pedal bikes from its Brixton, Catford, Colliers Wood, Acton, Edmonton, Hayes and Wembley branches.