Amazon Orders 150 Electric HGVs as Part of Plan to Create UK’s Largest Zero-Emission Fleet

Amazon has taken a significant step toward creating Britain’s largest zero-emission truck fleet by ordering more than 150 electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). This move is part of the company’s broader strategy to reduce its carbon footprint and accelerate the adoption of electric transport across the UK.

The tech giant confirmed it has placed an order for over 140 new Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 trucks and eight Volvo FM Electric units. This will add to the nine electric tractor units already in operation within its fleet. Amazon expects to have 160 electric HGVs on the road by the end of 2024. Although the company did not disclose the exact cost of the order, with each electric HGV priced up to £200,000, the total investment could reach around £30 million.

The eActros 600 trucks, which offer a range of 310 miles per charge, are part of Amazon’s ambitious plan to integrate 1,500 electric trucks into its European fleet by 2027. The £300 million investment in electric vehicles is in line with Amazon’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.

At present, there are an estimated 300 electric HGVs operating across the UK. Amazon’s new fleet will represent a significant increase, helping to accelerate the transition to zero-emission trucks in Britain. The company’s move is expected to have a substantial impact on reducing carbon emissions in the logistics sector.

In addition to expanding its electric fleet, Amazon is also ramping up its use of rail transport to reduce its reliance on road freight. The company will begin moving shipping containers along the west coast main line, connecting Scotland, the West Midlands, and London. These goods will then be transferred to local sorting centres for further distribution.

Amazon’s focus on sustainability extends to urban areas, with the company introducing on-foot deliveries in central London. The deliveries will be made using restockable trolleys, and Amazon has partnered with operators of electric vans and e-cargo bikes to further minimize emissions in busy city centres.

Nicola Fyfe, head of Amazon logistics in Europe, emphasized the benefits of these changes, stating, “This is a win for our customers, the environment, and our business. By deploying the country’s biggest order of eHGVs, utilizing the UK’s electric rail network, and launching on-foot deliveries, we are cutting emissions and boosting delivery efficiency.”

The shift toward electric transport and rail freight aligns with Amazon’s long-term sustainability goals and sets a new standard for green logistics in the UK.