- UK agricultural distributor, Agrii, has adopted its first Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 electric truck, and with the high demands the firm is placing on the truck, it once again proves how eHGVs can go the distance for operators.
- With the eActros 600’s battery range of 310 miles, this new unit is perfectly suited for Agrii’s nightly delivery route of 285 miles, allowing the truck to be driven from its main distribution centre to a network of depots on just a single charge.
- Agrii is the latest in a growing list of operators who are helping to prove a simple fact: Electric trucks are here now, and they work now.
Agrii proves that electric trucks can go the distance
The adoption of a Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 HGV suits Agrii’s plan to reduce logistics-associated emissions, with this first electric truck projected to reduce annual emissions of CO2 by 59 tonnes, based on the truck covering around 37,200 miles per year.
Agrii selected the eActros 600 after an intensive evaluation, with the truck undertaking common Agrii routes with a full payload to gauge battery range. Not only do electric trucks bring environmental benefits and long-term cost savings, but there’s a particular benefit for agricultural businesses such as Agrii. With the need to carry out late night deliveries in rural areas, the electric truck also reduces noise pollution in what are typically quiet communities.
There’s a growing number of UK truck operators making the switch to electric trucks, and the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 is proving to be a particular hit, which can be attributed to the truck’s 310 mile range – one of the highest currently available on the market. Elsewhere in the country, Amazon has also placed an order for 160 examples of the same truck. It’s also proved its use in industries where on-time delivery is crucial, such as motorsport and music festivals. However, with just 0.8% of current UK HGV sales being attributed to fully-electric models according to the SMMT, it’s clear that strong marketing messaging around electric trucks is still required, if we’re to see a future where electric trucks become the default choice for the trucking industry.
Amit Verma, Truck Sales Executive at Midlands Truck & Van, the firm which supplied the electric truck, commented:
“It’s been a pleasure to work with Agrii on this transition. From early prototype testing to detailed route analysis, this project has been a real partnership. Delivering the first eActros 600 to Agrii is a proud moment for everyone involved.”
Heiko Selzam, Managing Director of Daimler Truck UK, added:
“Agrii’s adoption of the eActros 600 shows that electric long-haul transport is ready for real-world operations. With its 500 km+ range and proven capability, the eActros 600 enables forward-thinking operators like Agrii to meet sustainability targets without compromising on productivity.”
