UK retailer M&S is celebrating six months of real-world success with five electric Renault Trucks E-Tech T 4×2 HGVs.
Marking an important step in M&S’s drive to achieve its net zero by 2040 goals, the electric HGVs have been delivered through the eFreight 2030 project.
The electric trucks operate from M&S’s clothing and home distribution centre in Welham Green, serving 20 stores across London and the South East, including flagship stores Oxford Street and Bluewater – all with zero tailpipe emissions.
To mark the six-month milestone, Renault Trucks hosted an event at the M&S Welham Green Distribution Centre, bringing together the teams behind the successful roll out, including drivers, logistics teams.
Driver acceptance of the electric trucks was a consistent highlight, with feedback noting improved comfort, reduced noise levels and smoother vehicle handling.
M&S and Renault Trucks are founding members of the eFreight 2030 consortium, part of the UK Government’s Zero emission HGV and infrastructure demonstrator (ZEHID) programme, which aims to decarbonise freight transport by accelerating the uptake of zero emissions heavy goods vehicles.
M&S’s five Renault E-Tech Ts are among the first on the road to start the project’s real-world evaluation of electric HGVs.
Powered by six 90 kWh batteries and three electric motors, the new Renault E-Tech T delivers up to 490kW of continuous power and maximum torque of 2400Nm, coupled to an Optidriver AT 2412 12 speed automated gearbox.
Air deflectors by Kuda provide enhanced aerodynamics, and additional safety features including door windows for safer urban operation and Renault Trucks’ anti rollaway park brake deliver a smooth and safe drive.
All five E-Tech Ts are double-shifted, supported by charging infrastructure installed by Voltempo as part of the eFreight 2030 project at the Welham Green base.
Additional infrastructure at M&S stores would allow for opportunity charging of the vehicles during stand time in future.
The introduction of the E-Tech Ts marks a significant step in M&S’ wider commitment to net zero, which has already seen three fully electric 26-tonne Renault Trucks E-Tech D Wide rigids with refrigerated bodies successfully operating on double shifts for over a year.
Carlos Rodrigues, managing director at Renault Trucks UK and Ireland, said: “We are proud that M&S has chosen Renault Trucks to lead its transition to zero-emission HGVs and delighted to hear that the progress and performance has been so positive.
“By switching to electric HGVs, M&S is setting the pace for sustainable retail logistics, and we are delighted to be supporting them on their journey to Net Zero. This is not only a demonstration, but also proof that large-scale, emission-free transport is already here, and it works.”
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