Amazon Commits $1 Billion to Decarbonize European Deliveries

Amazon has announced a bold investment exceeding $1 billion to electrify and decarbonize its transportation network across Europe. As part of this initiative, Amazon has placed its largest-ever order for heavy-duty electric trucks, purchasing more than 200 eActros 600 electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs) from Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

This move aligns with Amazon’s Climate Pledge to achieve net-zero carbon emissions across its operations by 2040. The newly ordered electric trucks will be deployed on high-mileage routes in the UK and Germany, connecting fulfillment centers, sorting hubs, and delivery stations. Once operational, these zero-emission trucks are expected to transport over 350 million packages annually.

Amazon is also investing in building the necessary infrastructure, installing 360kW electric charging points capable of charging the trucks’ batteries from 20% to 80% in just over an hour. This infrastructure is a crucial step toward making electric transportation feasible for heavy loads over long distances.

Andreas Marschner, Vice President of Amazon Worldwide Operations Sustainability, commented:

“This order of more than 200 electric trucks underlines our commitment to being a leader in electrifying heavy goods transportation in Europe. It is the biggest electric heavy truck order by Amazon to date anywhere in the world and is an important step as we work to achieve our Climate Pledge commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions across our operations by 2040.”

In addition to eHGVs, Amazon and its partners currently operate 3,000 electric vans in Europe, a number expected to grow to 10,000 by 2025. Amazon is also exploring innovative delivery methods, including using the UK’s electric rail network for package transport and launching on-foot deliveries in London using restockable carts.

The Mercedes eActros 600, a flagship long-haul electric truck, is central to Amazon’s strategy. With a battery capacity exceeding 600 kWh and a 500 km range, the eActros is being hailed as a gamechanger for sustainable logistics.

Karin Rådström, Chairwoman of the Board of Management of Daimler Truck AG, noted:

“We are very pleased that Amazon, a pioneer in the transformation towards alternative drives, has chosen the eActros 600, a gamechanger for sustainable transportation.”