
Volvo Trucks North America has announced the latest acquisition agreement for its zero-emission VNR Electric Class 8 semi. Canadian-based Pet Valu, one of the country's leading retailers of pet food and related supplies, has purchased two examples that will be integrated into its fleet and distribution network.
Both trucks will be based out of Pet Valu's new 350,000-square-foot distribution center in Surrey, British Columbia, and will play a key role in the company's transition to energy efficiency and greater emissions management.
The trucks are set to operate five days a week, traveling an average of 186 miles (300 kilometers) daily.
“We are excited to see Pet Valu taking the initiative in the Canadian pet supply industry by adopting Volvo’s VNR Electric trucks. As they venture into sustainable transportation, this effort is expected to not only strengthen their supply chain but also help support a healthier planet, one ‘purr-fectly’ quiet kilometer at a time,” said Matthew Blackman, managing director for Canada, Volvo Trucks North America.
[Related: Volvo's VNR Electric hits operational milestone]
Pet Valu's Volvo VNR Electrics are equipped with the six-battery pack configuration, which translates to a maximum range of 275 miles (442 kilometers) on a single charge. Both trucks will be charged nightly at the distribution center where two 120 kW chargers have already been installed.
“Each electric delivery truck represents an opportunity to avoid consuming over 25,000 litres of diesel fuel or over 62 tonnes of CO2e per year. We’re excited to explore how these trucks perform and assess the potential for further electrification of our delivery fleet in the future," added Nico Weidel, Pet Valu's chief supply chain officer.
[Related: Volvo Trucks delivers 70 VNR Electrics thanks to $21.5 million fund]
Pet Valu secured funding for the purchase of these vehicles through Canadian federal and provincial programs, specifically Clean BC - Go Electric and Incentives for Medium- and Heavy-Duty Zero-Emission Vehicles (iMHZEV). Taking into account fuel savings and yearly mileage, the company further says it could be eligible for carbon credits to help offset the cost even more.