Toll Group has announced the first of what will be a program of electric prime movers for Primary Connect at their new Moorebank Distribution Centre.
This milestone marks the beginning of heavy electric vehicle deployment for Primary Connect, a logistics stable within the bigger Woolworths Group, in New South Wales, with additional units to follow.
Commencing operations in October, the Volvo FM battery electric prime mover will provide a cleaner, quieter, and lower-emissions transport solution per a media release issued today by Toll.
The program is supported by a 980kw EV charger at the Moorebank Distribution Centre, which builds on the strong sustainability focus of the site which includes a 3.8MW onsite solar generation system.
The ongoing introduction of electric vehicles complements the significant investment Woolworths has made in the new distribution centre and its dedicated charging capability.
The delivery also forms part of Toll’s $67 million investment in battery electric heavy vehicles and charging infrastructure, co-funded with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) through its ‘Driving the Nation’ program.
ARENA’s support has been instrumental in enabling Toll to progress this initiative.
Nick Vrckovski, Toll President Retail & Consumer, said the milestone reflected the longstanding partnership between Toll and Woolworths, built on a shared commitment to service excellence, safety, and environmental sustainability.
“We’re proud to support Woolworths’ transition to a cleaner transport network by introducing the first of a program of electric heavy vehicles to service its supply chain needs,” he said.
“This is a significant moment in our 20-year partnership, as we work together toward a lower-emissions future.
“Deploying electric vehicles at scale is a complex challenge in our industry, and it’s one we’re committed to solving. Through collaboration, innovation, and targeted investment, we’re building a logistics network ready to meet the demands of a more sustainable supply chain.”
Chris Brooks, Acting Managing Director of Primary Connect and Chief Supply Chain Officer Woolworths Group said the initiative marks an important step forward in its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint through innovation in heavy transport.
“This initiative allows us to demonstrate the practical application of electric vehicle technology in our heavy transport operations while also providing valuable insights into the infrastructure required to support and scale a future electric fleet,” he said in a statement.
“Coupled with our investment in dedicated charging facilities, it underscores our commitment to driving sustainable change within the Australian logistics industry,” said Brooks.
The insights gained from the program will contribute to broader industry knowledge according to Toll especially when it comes to energy usage, route planning, and vehicle performance.
The company has high hopes it will help support the long-term transition to low-emissions freight transport in Australia.
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