Tesco, the UK’s largest supermarket chain, is accelerating its move towards a low-emission future by launching a bold trial of fully electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). As part of its ambition to reach net zero carbon by 2035, the grocer is now testing electric lorries across selected routes, delivering to stores with zero tailpipe emissions.
This trial represents a pivotal moment for UK logistics, especially as the retail industry contends with both rising fuel costs and mounting pressure from regulators and customers to reduce environmental impact.
From Diesel to Electric: The Logistics Shift
Tesco’s first electric lorry, developed in partnership with key vehicle manufacturers, is being deployed from its distribution centre in Magor, Wales, to nearby stores. The vehicle boasts:
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A range of up to 250 miles per charge
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Payload capacity comparable to diesel alternatives
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Quiet operation, improving conditions in urban areas
It’s a major leap from conventional diesel-powered trucks, which still make up the vast majority of Tesco’s 4000-strong fleet.
Why Electric and Why Now?
The urgency stems from multiple angles:
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UK government mandates for phasing out diesel HGVs by 2040
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Tesco’s own carbon reduction goals
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The rising cost of fossil fuels
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Customer demand for greener operations
Tesco said the trial would help assess the vehicles’ performance under real-world supermarket conditions — particularly their ability to handle chilled and frozen goods, which require added energy.
A spokesperson noted:
“Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. This trial will help us understand how to scale up electric transport across our business.”
Charging Infrastructure: A Challenge Ahead
One of the biggest hurdles remains the charging infrastructure. Unlike electric vans, lorries need high-capacity chargers, ideally located near depots or on long-haul routes.
Tesco has begun installing fast chargers at its distribution hubs and is in talks with energy partners to roll out more.
Industry experts say this investment is crucial if the UK wants to meet national emissions targets. Without proper infrastructure, electric HGVs could remain niche rather than mainstream.
Supply Chain Sustainability: Beyond the Trucks
Tesco’s green logistics ambitions are not limited to vehicle trials. The company has also been:
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Reducing food waste through AI-managed inventory
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Switching to recyclable materials in packaging
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Increasing rail freight usage to move goods between depots
Its Greener Greens initiative, launched earlier this year, focuses on working with farmers who use sustainable irrigation and low-carbon fertilisers.
A First Among UK Supermarkets
Tesco is not the only retailer exploring sustainable transport, but it is among the first to trial fully electric HGVs. Competitors like Sainsbury’s and Asda have focused more on biofuels and hybrid vehicles.
This early adoption positions Tesco as a leader in green logistics, aligning with its broader brand mission and potentially giving it a reputational advantage among environmentally conscious shoppers.
Industry Reaction
Transport and climate advocacy groups have largely welcomed the move. Friends of the Earth described it as “a vital step toward cleaning up our roads,” while the Freight Transport Association highlighted the need for government support to ensure more companies can follow Tesco’s lead.
Retail analyst Mark Henson told ISN:
“Tesco is doing what leading brands should — taking risks to innovate for the long-term. The industry is watching closely.”
What Comes Next?
If successful, the trial could pave the way for a fleet-wide rollout over the next five years. Tesco has hinted at placing larger orders should the results meet expectations on range, maintenance, and cost-efficiency.
For now, the journey is just beginning — but it’s electric, ambitious, and potentially transformative.