Toll Group will add a Volvo FM battery electric prime mover at Woolworth subsidiary Primary Connect’s new Moorebank Distribution Centre in NSW in October, marking the beginning of heavy electric vehicle deployment in the state, with additional units to follow.
The company says the prime mover will provide a “cleaner, quieter and lower-emissions transport solution”. The program is supported by a 980kW EV charger at the DC, which builds on the strong sustainability focus of the site which includes a 3.8mW onsite solar generation system.
The introduction of electric vehicles complements the significant investment Woolworths has made in the new distribution centre and its dedicated charging capability.
The delivery 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 and Consumer, says the milestone reflects the long-standing 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. This is a significant moment in our 20-year partnership, as we work together toward a lower-emissions future,” he says.
“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, says 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. Coupled with our investment in dedicated charging facilities, it underscores our commitment to driving sustainable change within the Australian logistics industry,” he says.
The insights gained from this will contribute to broader industry knowledge on energy usage, route planning and vehicle performance, and support the long-term transition to low-emissions freight transport in Australia.