Victorian transport operator Total Logistic Solutions (TLS) has taken a significant step towards sustainability by integrating a battery electric truck into its fleet. The fast-growing logistics company, based in Tottenham, Victoria, recently acquired its first Scania 25 P, marking a pivotal moment in its journey towards reducing carbon emissions.
Last month, TLS received the Scania 25 P, a battery electric vehicle (BEV) equipped with a 10-pallet curtainside body and powered tailgate. The handover was attended by Scania Australia’s managing director, Manfred Streit, who emphasized the importance of this transition.
“We are delighted to mark the presentation of this zero-tailpipe emission BEV truck to TLS,” Streit stated. “This truck will give TLS a real-world appreciation of the benefits of silent running, zero tailpipe emissions, as well as enhanced driver satisfaction.”
Transition to Electric: A Strategic Move
The introduction of the Scania 25 P is part of TLS’s broader strategy to embrace greener technologies. CEO Jason McHenry and managing director Doug Painter were present at Scania’s Campbellfield head office to collect the keys to the new vehicle. McHenry explained that the truck would initially be used for last-mile delivery operations across urban areas in Victoria.
“We will be testing this truck across our depots around Australia to better understand the efficiencies and effectiveness of the technology and to gauge driver acceptance. We are committed to delivering a greener tomorrow,” McHenry commented.
The move to electric vehicles aligns with TLS’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. Previously, the company added fuel-efficient Euro 6 Scania V8 trucks to its fleet, achieving a 10 percent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. Encouraged by these results, TLS is optimistic about the potential benefits of the Scania 25 P.
Industry Reactions and Customer Interest
The acquisition of the Scania 25 P has sparked interest among TLS’s clientele, many of whom are supportive of emissions-free deliveries. McHenry expressed confidence that the new model would be well-received by customers.
“Our client base is going to be very interested as well in how we incorporate the Scania BEV into the fleet,” he said. “Many have already expressed strong support for emissions-free deliveries.”
Travis Damianopoulos, new vehicle account manager for Scania’s Laverton branch, expressed no doubts about the truck’s performance. He highlighted the collaboration with Austruck, the local body builder, to ensure a seamless integration of the curtainsider body and Dhollandia tail lift.
“The Scania 25 P provides all the comforts and features and safety of a regular Scania truck,” Damianopoulos noted. “This truck will be turning heads wherever it goes.”
Implications for Drivers and the Future
For TLS drivers, the transition to electric is expected to bring positive changes. Damianopoulos pointed out that the most noticeable difference would be the silence inside the cab compared to diesel counterparts. The low noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels, combined with smart acceleration, are expected to make the Scania 25 P a joy to drive.
“Undoubtedly there will be some competition among the TLS drivers to have a go behind the wheel,” he remarked.
The move to electric vehicles is not just a trend but a necessity in the evolving transport industry. As environmental concerns grow, companies like TLS are setting examples by adopting sustainable practices. The integration of the Scania 25 P is a testament to TLS’s commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.
Looking ahead, the success of this initiative could pave the way for more widespread adoption of electric vehicles in the logistics sector. As TLS continues to test and evaluate the Scania 25 P, the company remains at the forefront of the electric revolution, driving towards a more sustainable future.
