Harrods picks zero-emission electric van for London grocery deliveries

London department store Harrods has added an all-electric e-NV200 delivery van to its fleet, nearly 100 years after its first foray into the use of electric vehicles.

The Nissan e-NV200 has been specially adapted for its fresh grocery delivery needs, with a fully refrigerated load space and shelving units.

Its exterior has been wrapped in the traditional green and gold delivery to make it recognisable as it travels around London.

The e-NV200 has a range of up to 106 miles on a single charge, which means it is capable of making up to 50 deliveries a week covering an average distance of 150 miles on one weekly charge.

In 1919, the store used solid-tyred American Walker electric vans, later building its own fleet of 60 electric vehicles to deliver goods to London customers. As petrol engines became more popular, the electric vans were slowly phased out.

Harrods media sales director Guy Cheston said: “It’s wonderful to see an electric Harrods van on the road again. As part of our carbon and energy management policy, we have identified transportation as a key area where we can make an impact."

He added: “We have a strong heritage in developing innovative technology, both in-store and out, and Harrods was one of the first companies in the UK to develop an all-electric commercial fleet, introducing our first electric vehicle more than 100 years ago.

"Electric technology has developed rapidly since our old fleet was in operation, and is now a far more sustainable transport solution.”

Nissan Europe director of electric vehicles Gareth Dunsmore said: “Businesses across Europe are taking major steps to reduce their impact on the environment and it’s great to see such an iconic British department store embracing zero emission technology and putting the e-NV200 on its fleet.”

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