Webfleet, Bridgestone’s fleet management solution, has supported Mitchells of Mansfield’s zero carbon crusade by providing a business case to switch to the UK’s first electric Renault truck.
The Nottinghamshire-based pallet distributor – which aims to become carbon neutral by 2027 – has become the UK’s first operator of an 18-tonne Renault E Tech D Wide electric truck, identified as a feasible transition by Webfleet’s fleet electrification planning report.
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“With Webfleet, we could see exact mileage, tail lift use and average speeds for the original diesel truck – allowing us to anticipate exact energy needs,” explained Managing Director Richard Montgomery.
“This meant we didn’t overspend on battery packs we didn’t need and it ensures that the battery will perform right up to the end of its term.”
According to the company, the truck is ideal for urban deliveries in and around Nottingham, a city which plans to become carbon neutral by 2028.
“The transport sector currently accounts for 24% of UK greenhouse gas emissions so the time to act is now – not tomorrow,” said Richard. “The truck may have been three times the price of a diesel truck, but with an eight-year-old daughter’s future to consider, I know there is no ‘plan B’. We don’t need greenwashing – we need real action to reduce our carbon emissions.”
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By GlobalDataWebfleet is also keeping Mitchells updated on charging needs.
“Rather than investing in an expensive proprietary chargepoint, we’ve simply run a three-phase electrical cable out to a charging post at our Mansfield depot and it works faultlessly,” said Richard.
According to a statement by the company, the investment has also had a significant positive impact on driver safety with Webfleet OptiDrive 360 highlighting instances of speeding, harsh steering or sudden braking across the fleet of 55 trucks.
“We are fiercely proud of our reputation at Mitchells,” added Richard. “And our drivers are our brand ambassadors – so safe and considerate driving is important to us. Webfleet quickly shows us which drivers need support with driver training.”
The company is committed to becoming 100% carbon neutral by 2027, with initiatives ranging from office lighting updates and electric forklift trucks to carbon offsetting.
