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Amazon ramps up UK electric fleet with rail and cart deliveries

Amazon is expanding its eco-friendly delivery network in the UK with the purchase of over 140 electric trucks, an increase in rail freight and the use of post-style delivery carts in cities.

Sarah Butler reports for The Guardian.

In short:

  • Amazon has ordered 148 electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) from Mercedes-Benz and Volvo as part of its plan to decarbonize UK operations by 2040.
  • The company will also use electric trains on the west coast mainline to transport up to 20 million products annually.
  • New delivery carts will reduce van usage in London, with pilot programs already running in Hackney, Westminster and Islington.

Key quote:

"Decarbonising our transport network is key in helping us achieve our goal to reach net zero carbon emissions across our operations by 2040."

— Nicola Fyfe, European vice president of Amazon Logistics

Why this matters:

Heavy freight transport is a significant source of carbon emissions, and Amazon’s investment in electric trucks and rail could set a precedent for other logistics companies. However, insufficient charging infrastructure and high costs remain hurdles to widespread adoption.

Related: Unusual electric vehicles and green tech steal the show in Paris

www.theguardian.com
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