Supermarket chain Tesco is rolling out its first 18 tonne 100% electric truck, a Renault Trucks E-Tech D Wide for use in Greater London.
The new zero-emission refrigerated electric truck is now delivering from Tesco’s Dagenham distribution centre to more than 400 stores in Greater London, with further electric vehicles planned to enter service in the coming months.
The E-Tech D Wide is eligible to operate in the capital’s Ultra Low Emission Zone and Congestion Charge Zone without incurring charges, while its zero tailpipe emissions and low traffic noise make it ideal for Tesco’s urban deliveries.
Tesco’s new truck specification is an E-Tech D Wide E-Tech with 18 + 1 tonne dispensation on a 4.75m wheelbase with day cab. It’s equipped with a Solomon Commercials refrigerated body of 6.4m external length with rear shutter door and 1,500kg column tail lift, all built to Tesco’s specification.
The truck features Carrier TRS Syberia 11 refrigeration equipment with power converter and is powered directly from the vehicle batteries via Renault Trucks’ 600-volt TVJB Fridge power supply unit. The vehicle has multiple temperature zones, allowing the truck to move stock with differing temperature needs.
Powered by 265kWh, 600-volt lithium-ion batteries (four battery packs of 66kW each, located in the wheelbase) the AC synchronous electric motors (providing power for the vehicle and recovering regenerative energy) with permanent-magnet technology deliver maximum power of 370 kW peak, continuous power of 260 kW and maximum torque of 425 Nm. The E-Tech reduction gearbox offers two forward speeds and one reverse.
“The Tesco distribution network is one of the largest in the UK and provides us with a great opportunity to roll out new technologies like this industry-leading E-Tech electric truck from Renault Trucks,” said Jason Tarry, Tesco UK and ROI CEO.
“Together with our switch to electric home delivery vans and rolling out electric vehicle charging points for our customers, we’re really excited about the improvements we’re making across our business and our transition to electric vehicles.”
