Walmart Canada has unveiled its first electric semi-trucks in British Columbia, signaling a step towards its target of an entirely alternative-powered fleet. The three Freightliner eCascadia electric semi-trucks will be based at the retailer’s Surrey grocery distribution center, designed as a hub for alternative vehicles.
This move is anticipated to result in a reduction of over 100,000 liters of fuel consumption annually, aligning with Walmart Canada’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
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Aaron Ritter, Director of Transportation at Walmart Canada, emphasized the significance of this milestone in their efforts to decrease the company’s carbon footprint. He stated, “The introduction of three electric semi-trucks at our Surrey distribution center is just the first step towards our ambition of a 100% alternatively powered fleet, and we look forward to continuing our journey.”
The chosen vehicles, Freightliner eCascadia, are all-electric, zero-emissions semi-trucks with a range of approximately 400 kilometers on a single charge. Each truck is expected to cover about 110,000 kilometers annually in Walmart’s operations. These trucks are equipped with advanced safety technology and ergonomic seating, emphasizing road safety and driver comfort.
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Mayor Brenda Locke of the City of Surrey acknowledged Walmart Canada’s move towards electric vehicles for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, stating, “Walmart Canada is changing that with their new electric fleet of trucks.” She expressed optimism for Surrey being the home base for the initial phase of Walmart Canada’s electric fleet and looks forward to seeing the electric trucks on the roads. Mayor Locke anticipates further expansion of Walmart Canada’s electric fleet and its positive impact on environmental sustainability.
