Wren Kitchens, the UK’s number one kitchen retailer, has taken a significant step towards decarbonising its UK logistics operation, by taking delivery of 10 fully electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 tractor units from established, award-winning Mercedes-Benz Trucks Dealer, Rygor Auto.
Making the switch to electric Heavy Goods logistics for the first time, this marks the first phase of Wren’s commitment to a longer-term transition to an all-electric HGV fleet, as part of the firm’s wider ‘positive planet’ roadmap to carbon neutrality.
Wren Kitchen’s national fleet manager, Phil Bennett, commented: “Maintaining our industry-leading delivery performance while improving safety and reducing emissions is critical, and the eActros 600s allow us to do all three. They’re equipped with the latest safety systems and give our drivers a significantly enhanced working environment.”
The roll-out of Wren’s initial phase of the ‘positive planet’ roadmap has been supported by funding from the Department for Transport’s £1 billion zero-emission vehicle programme, designed to accelerate the adoption of electric trucks across the UK and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Wren has also invested in a dedicated on-site charging infrastructure, with a system that allows for simultaneous charging and operational flexibility across the fleet.
With an installed battery capacity of 621kWh (600kWh usable) and a range of at least 500km, up to 750km, the eActros 600s are designed to operate on Wren’s national delivery network without compromising operational performance. Each eActros can recharge from 20% to 80% in around an hour using 400kW DC rapid charging, enabling efficient turnaround between delivery shifts. These 10 eActros trucks will deliver a saving of c. 580 tonnes of CO2 per year.
Chris Carter, fleet sales consultant at Rygor Auto, commented: “Helping to enable Wren to work towards its positive planet roadmap with eActros has been a real privilege for the team at Rygor. As a long-established customer of Rygor’s, we continue to be proud to work alongside such a highly regarded national business, and especially one so committed to lowering emissions and building a more sustainable future for its operations. We truly believe the eActros sets the benchmark and is a perfect partner for the company’s journey towards a fully electrified HGV operation.”
The Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 offers major benefits for fleet operators, looking to reduce emissions while maintaining strong long-distance performance. Thanks to a range of at least 500km on a single charge, the eActros is built for long-distance demanding logistics.
As well as providing long range, the eActros delivers up to 600 kW of peak power, with smooth acceleration and efficient heavy load and hill climbing capabilities, while regenerative braking and Predictive Powertrain Control help significantly reduce energy consumption compared with diesel trucks.
The distinctive and aerodynamic ProCabin design also improves comfort and lowers operating costs, making the eActros 600 a practical and sustainable solution for modern long-haul transport. As well as exceptional in-cab comfort and space, the eActros has the very latest safety features and technology included too, including Active Brake Assist, Sideguard Assist and MirrorCam systems too.
Nicola Dainter-Kemsley, Daimler Truck UK key account manager, commented, “Seeing the eActros hit the road as part of such an ambitious electrification journey is a real milestone, and we’re excited to be part of it. It’s a real privilege to work with Wren Kitchens on this transition and to help support the next chapter of their logistics operation.”
Thanks to a wide range of variants in the eActros line-up, there’s an electric solution for virtually every need or job.
Notes to Editors:
Rygor Group, an official UK Great Place to Work for four years running, comprises a diverse collection of UK automotive businesses, with a primary focus on trucks, vans, coaches, passenger cars, body repairs and coachbuilding. Through the hard work of our team members, we have secured our position as one of the UK’s top automotive Groups, with a turnover of circa £300m a year. We value the dedication and commitment of our team members and strive to be one of the UK’s most rewarding places to work which is a key part of our values: Rewarding, Reliable and Respectful. Rygor Group manages our four divisions: Rygor Auto, Rygor Land Systems, Rygor Plant and Rygor Service Solutions, which operate from a total of 20 sites across the UK.
For more information, in the first instance please contact Director of People & Communication: kateruberry-shoemack@rygor.co.uk and visit rygor.co.uk.