Primary Connect and Linfox to launch new electric truck in supply chain

Primary Connect, the supply chain arm of supermarket giant Woolworths, has partnered with logistics company Linfox to launch a new electric truck on Melbourne’s roads that will help lay the groundwork for greener supply chain logistics.

The refrigerated truck is the third electric vehicle (EV) to join Primary Connect’s fleet. It is one of only two Volvo FL Electrics operating in Australia.

The partnership is part of a trial to explore opportunities for EVs in the supply chain, where Primary Connect and Linfox will be monitoring its performance over the coming months.

As Woolworths Group works towards a significant reduction in emissions by 2030, on the path to becoming net carbon positive by 2050, EV trials are helping lay the groundwork for greener supply chain logistics.

“From the products in our supermarkets to the trucks that deliver them, we know the changes we make to become more sustainable today will create a better tomorrow for generations to come,” said Chris Brooks, Acting Managing Director of Primary Connect and Chief Supply Chain Officer of Woolworths Group.

“We’re excited to deepen our investment in electric vehicles in partnership with Linfox, as we pave the way for a greener next-generation supply chain,” Brooks said.

He continued that Primary Connect supplies to more than1,000 supermarkets across the country, and the ongoing development of EVs represents an opportunity for them to drive positive change on Australia’s roads.

“With shared values, environmental considerations are at the top of Linfox, Woolworths and Volvo’s agendas. It is sustainability partnerships like this that can drive big change,” agreed Peter Fox, Executive Chairman at Linfox Pty Ltd.

Related: Primary Connect and Linfox to launch new electric truck in supply chain

The electric truck will travel from Primary Connect’s Melbourne Fresh Distribution Centre to Woolworths supermarkets around the Melbourne metro area daily, delivering fresh produce to its supermarkets.

It can carry up to eight pallets of produce, allowing Woolworths to transport an average of around four tonnes in each trip.

The EV can travel up to 200 kilometres on a single charge and has regeneration capability, allowing the battery to recharge each time the truck travels downhill or brakes. It is also significantly quieter than diesel alternatives.

In August 2018, Woolworths Group launched its first electric distribution vehicle, the first 100 per cent electric heavy rigid vehicle in Australia – and the largest of its kind at the time. In 2019, its second EV joined the fleet.

Source: Primary Connect