Tesco fleet gains 18t electric refrigerated trucks

Tesco is expanding its zero-emission fleet with new 18-tonne refrigerated trucks.

The first to enter operation is a Renault Trucks E-Tech D Wide, which is being used for deliveries in Greater London.

Tesco’s E-Tech D Wide vehicle features a Solomon Commercials refrigeration body and Carrier TRS Syberia 11 refrigeration equipment, with power converter, which is powered directly from the vehicle batteries via Renault Trucks’ 600v TVJB Fridge power supply unit.

The vehicle has multi temperature zones, allowing the truck to move stock with differing temperature needs.

Jason Tarry, Tesco UK and ROI CEO, said: “We all want to see improved air quality and less pollution in our towns and cities, and electric vehicles will play a crucial role in achieving this.

“The Tesco distribution network is one of the largest in the UK and provides us with a great opportunity to roll out new technologies like this industry-leading E-Tech electric truck from Renault Trucks.

“Together with our switch to electric home delivery vans and rolling out electric vehicle charging points for our customers, we’re really excited about the improvements we’re making across our business and our transition to electric vehicles.”

Tesco started using electric articulated trucks as part of its heavy-duty haulage fleet, in January.

The Renault Trucks E-Tech D Wide selected by Tesco has a 4.75m wheelbase, a 6.4m external length with rear shutter door and a 1,500kg column tail lift. It is powered by a 265kWh battery pack and a 353hp motor, with 425Nm of torque.

The vehicle comes with Renault Trucks Battery Performance Promise which guarantees that the battery will operate for up to 10 years or deliver 300 MW of energy over the vehicle’s life. The D Wide E-Tech will recharge at Tesco’s newly installed electric charge points at its Dagenham distribution centre.

Carlos Rodrigues, managing director of Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, said: “We are delighted that Tesco, the UK’s largest supermarket chain, has chosen to partner with Renault Trucks on its journey to net zero and selected the E-Tech D-Wide for its first fully electric model to move refrigerated goods more quietly and with zero emissions across the Greater London area.”