Australia Post trials heavy-duty electric vehicle

Australia Post is trialling a new heavy-duty large electric truck in its fleet, and has announced a new renewable diesel partnership with Ampol.

The new Mercedes-Benz eActros, manufactured by Daimler Truck, is the first heavy-duty electric truck to join Australia Post’s national fleet, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to low-emission delivery solutions.

The eActros produces zero tailpipe emissions, and provides advanced safety features and a quieter, more efficient driving experience suited to urban and regional freight routes.

Australia Post General Manager Network Assets and Implementation Mitch Buxton said the eActros is an important step in understanding how large electric vehicles can integrate into the organisation’s operations.

“Trialling the eActros will give us valuable insights into how heavy-duty electric vehicles can perform across our network. We’ve been investing in electric delivery vehicles for more than a decade, and this is the next step in building a cleaner, smarter and more resilient fleet for the future,” Buxton said. “Introducing electric trucks is not without its challenges, from charging infrastructure to range and load capacity — but it’s a challenge we are excited to take on.”

Coinciding with this launch, Australia Post has also partnered with Ampol to supply 5 million litres of Amplify Diesel R10, consisting of a 10% blend of renewable diesel, to its Redbank Parcel Facility in Brisbane.

The renewable diesel will be used in the site’s existing truck fleet of 89 vehicles over the next year, reducing lifecycle emissions without requiring engine modifications.

Together, the two initiatives reflect Australia Post’s multi-solution approach to reducing emissions across one of the nation’s largest and most diverse transport fleets.

“We know there’s no single path to decarbonising a fleet of our size and scale. That’s why we’re exploring a range of cleaner alternatives, from electric vehicles to renewable diesel to find the best mix to support the size of our operations. Each step helps us learn, adapt and keep driving on our path to target net zero emissions by 2050,” Buxton said.

Brad Phillips, Ampol General Manager B2B, said Ampol is proud of the role it continues to play in supporting customers as their transport energy priorities evolve.

“Renewable diesel has the potential to lower fuel lifecycle emissions as it’s manufactured from renewable feedstocks such as canola or waste products, and is a logical solution for hard to abate industries where fleet or infrastructure changes are not required,” Phillips said. “We’re excited to support Australia Post in their journey through the energy transition.”

These initiatives form part of Australia Post’s broader sustainability commitment which includes targeting net zero by 2050.

Image caption: Australia Post’s new Mercedes-Benz eActros heavy-duty electric vehicle. Image supplied by Australia Post.