Nestlé is testing two battery electric Volvo FM tractor units as a means to reduce its carbon footprint.

The vehicles have a driving range of 120 miles and the confectionery firm said this was sufficient to travel between planned distribution points and factories across the UK.

To ensure the electric vehicles remain charged and ready for operation, Nestlé has also invested in charging infrastructure at its sites in York, Halifax, Tutbury, and logistics warehouse East Midlands Gateway.

David McGhin, transport manager at Nestlé UK & Ireland, said: “Making our fleet as efficient as possible, whilst looking to reduce the environmental impact of our journeys, is front and centre of Nestlé’s logistics strategy.

“We’re proud to say we’re very much early adopters of electric vehicles in the FMCG space, and we’re keen to test and learn what they can do as they could have a significant part to play in our journey to net zero, both here in the UK and as a global business.”

He added: “With any new technology, we need a huge amount of engagement from the people who will use it every day. The drivers have welcomed the arrival of the BEV trucks and recognise the role they can play towards Nestlé’s commitment to net zero – they will be crucial players over the coming months.”

Last year, the company replaced 11 HGVs with bio-LNG fuel and in 2024 it intends to start running some of its fleet on HVO.