Kurt VandeweerdtEcolab and European logistics partner H.Essers are enhancing their 20-plus year relationship and joint commitment to carbon reduction with an innovative e-shuttle pilot project in Belgium.
Deploying a fully electric lorry to transport 1,000 deliveries annually from Ecolab’s production plant in Tessenderlo to its European hub in Genk, the pilot project supports the shared commitment of both companies to deliver more sustainable operations and meet Ecolab’s target of achieving 2030 Positive Impact and a 42 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions H.Essers has committed to also by 2030.
The European logistics firm further believes the e-shuttle project will pave the way for wider adoption of electric lorries by demonstrating competitive Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) benefits compared to their diesel equivalents in the short-to-medium term.
Piloting a more ambitious goal
The e-shuttle project is part of a wider initiative by H.Essers to reduce CO2 emissions by between 66 and 100 tonnes every year by utilising 100% green electricity. A further expansion of its electric fleet is planned for 2025 with six lorries from three different manufacturers scheduled for delivery this year.
All of the vehicles have nominal advertised ranges of between 350 and 500km and two MAN eTGX lorries will be used to evaluate EV performance in real-world operations.
The pilot will also gather data on practical performance, real-world range, and costs under varying conditions.
“Sustainability is a collective effort, and we must work together to create a positive future.”
A testimony to collaboration
Christopher Van den Daele, Chief Operating Officer for Transport at H.Essers, tells FM Magazine: “The introduction of our first electric truck is a proud moment for H.Essers. It’s a tangible example of our dedication to innovation and sustainability. Partnering with Ecolab on this initiative highlights the strength of our relationship and our shared vision for a greener future.
“We have long been investing in diverse solutions, and electrification marks an important next step that we are initiating through this pilot project. By testing different truck models, ranges, and technologies in real-world conditions, we aim to gather critical insights that will inform the future scalability of our electric fleet. We have long been investing in diverse solutions, and electrification marks an important next step that we are initiating through this pilot project. This collaborative effort with Ecolab helps us pave the way for a more sustainable logistics sector.”
Reindert Baars, Ecolab’s Director of Sustainability – Europe, adds: “Innovation and technology play a crucial role in driving sustainable performance and achieving long-term goals.
“Sustainability is core to our purpose. Across every industry we serve, we collaborate with partners to deliver a more sustainable and prosperous future. Our joint effort with H.Essers is a proud reflection of this spirit.
“Sustainability is a collective effort, and we must work together to create a positive future.”
Watch an interview of Reindert discussing the collaboration here.
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