By placing an order for five Kenworth T680 trucks driven by Toyota fuel cells, Loblaw has pledged to import some of the first hydrogen-powered vehicles into Canada.
According to Canada's largest grocery chain, the units overcome the range-related limitations of battery-electric models by promising ranges of more than 700 kilometres between recharging.
This month, Paccar revealed intentions to start mass-producing hydrogen-powered trucks in 2025 and deliver them to Canada and the United States as early as next year.
The investment in zero-emission trucks by Loblaw is not new. The company already operates two battery-powered day cabs that travel between stores in Montreal and a distribution hub in Boucherville, Quebec. Additionally, it has placed orders for roughly 35 battery-electric vehicles with a number of them anticipated to hit the road by the end of 2024.
According to Wayne Scott, senior director of transportation maintenance at Loblaw, "We're committed to finding solutions that allow us to operate sustainably and protect the natural resources and beauty of Canada." "We see hydrogen-powered trucks as an excellent way to reduce emissions for our trucks that travel longer distances, with a longer driving range compared to battery-electric vehicles."
We are a sizable business that runs a vast supply chain network to restock shops in thousands of Canadian regions. This results in a significant footprint because our vehicles are driving throughout every province and territory, according to chief administrative officer Rob Wiebe. We recognize the chance to halt climate change and are aware of our obligation to develop innovative strategies for reducing our carbon emissions. We shall advance along with technology.
By 2030, the company will electrify its 160 day taxis, and by 2040, it will have achieved net-zero carbon emissions throughout the entire company.
According to its most recent Environmental, Social, and Governance Report, Loblaw reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 8% from 2020 to 22.
