Wren Kitchens kicks off fleet decarbonisation with 10 Mercedes-Benz eActros trucks

The roll-out is part of Wren’s initial phase of its Positive Planet roadmap which aims to reach net zero emissions by 2030. 

The programme has been supported by funding from the DfT £1bn Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme, which is designed to accelerate the adoption of electric trucks across the UK and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Wren Kitchens is a key member of the ZEHID consortium ZENFreight.

Wren has also invested in a dedicated on-site charging infrastructure, with a system that allows for simultaneous charging and operational flexibility across the fleet.

Wren Kitchen’s national fleet manager, Phil Bennett, commented: “Maintaining our industry-leading delivery performance while improving safety and reducing emissions is critical, and the eActros 600s allow us to do all three. They’re equipped with the latest safety systems and give our drivers a significantly enhanced working environm

With an installed battery capacity of 621kWh (600kWh usable) and a range of at least 500km, up to 750km, the eActros 600s are designed to operate on Wren’s national delivery network without compromising operational performance.

Each eActros can recharge from 20% to 80% in around an hour using 400kW DC rapid charging, enabling efficient turnaround between delivery shifts. These 10 eActros trucks will deliver a saving of c. 580 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Chris Carter, Rygor Auto fleet sales consultant, said: “Helping to enable Wren to work towards its positive planet roadmap with eActros has been a real privilege for the team at Rygor.

“As a long-established customer of Rygor’s, we continue to be proud to work alongside such a highly regarded national business, and especially one so committed to lowering emissions and building a more sustainable future for its operations.

“We truly believe the eActros sets the benchmark and is a perfect partner for the company’s journey towards a fully electrified HGV operation.”

The Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 has a range of 500km on a single charge, making it suitable for long-distance logistics.

The vehicle also delivers up to 600 kW of peak power, with smooth acceleration and efficient heavy load and hill climbing capabilities, while regenerative braking and Predictive Powertrain Control help significantly reduce energy consumption compared with diesel trucks.

The aerodynamic ProCabin design also improves driver comfort and lowers operating costs. It also comes with safety features and tech including Active Brake Assist, Sideguard Assist and MirrorCam systems.

Nicola Dainter-Kemsley, Daimler Truck UK key account manager, commented: “Seeing the eActros hit the road as part of such an ambitious electrification journey is a real milestone, and we’re excited to be part of it.

“It’s a real privilege to work with Wren Kitchens on this transition and to help support the next chapter of their logistics operation.”