In a significant move towards reducing carbon emissions and improving logistical efficiency, IKEA Supply, part of the Inter IKEA Group, has launched its first heavy-duty electric truck for public road operations in India. The truck began service in October 2024 and has already completed 100 trips transporting goods between the Mumbai port, IKEA’s distribution centre in Pune, and its retail store in Mumbai.
Key Benefits
The introduction of the electric truck has yielded several benefits, including:
- Reduced turnaround time: The electric truck has cut the turnaround time for the 120-kilometre route from two days to one, making the transportation process more efficient.
- Cost savings: Annual transport costs for this route have been reduced 16 percent, resulting in significant cost savings for the company.
- Emissions reduction: The electric truck has led to a 30 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to approximately 206 tons per year, contributing to a more sustainable environment.
- Increased efficiency: The number of empty runs has declined about 160,000 kilometres annually, reducing waste and optimizing the transportation process.
Route Optimization
The 120-kilometre route, which includes three stops, was previously serviced two conventional diesel trucks. With the introduction of the electric vehicle, a single truck now completes the entire journey, streamlining the logistics process.
Sustainability Goals
Transport-related emissions account for approximately five percent of IKEA’s total carbon footprint. The company has set ambitious targets to reduce the carbon footprint from each transport 70 percent on average 2030 and to use only zero-emission heavy-duty trucks 2040.
By introducing electric trucks to its fleet, IKEA is taking a significant step towards reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable logistics practices.