The John Lewis Partnership today announced that it intends to have a zero-emissions fleet by 2045.

The high street retailer, which is owned by its employees, currently uses more than 3,200 vehicles – ranging from delivery trucks to trailers and vans – and said it planned to switch them all to electric vehicles.

It comes after the company’s announcement that it would be changing its heavy trucks to low carbon-emission, biomethane-powered versions. More than 60 of these new, cleaner vehicles have already been put into service by the retailer.

Justin Laney, partner and general manager of central transport at the John Lewis Partnership, said: “We have been working hard to reduce emissions from our transport fleet over the last few years and are proud to set our most ambitious target yet. Transport is a significant part of our overall carbon footprint, so we need to take urgent action to decarbonise our fleet.

“It’s a huge challenge, and viable technology and infrastructure still needs to be developed for heavy trucks, but we are committed to leading the way on the road to zero emissions.”

John Lewis has already started the process, having electrified many of its vans. It has partnered with technology company Arrival to try out four ‘smart electric’ home delivery vans, while six Waitrose delivery trucks with zero-emission refrigeration are being tested too.

Jesse Norman, future of mobility minister, said: “I’m delighted the John Lewis Partnership has pledged to go green. Delivering all of their goods to homes across Britain using a zero-carbon fleet by 2045 is a great ambition, especially since they have thousands of vehicles.

“I look forward to seeing further businesses following their example and making zero-emission transport a reality.”