Exactly one year ago, on the 7th of January 2024, we committed to a future in sustainable logistics with our first fully electric truck. Our goal: to streamline the intra-logistical processes of a major Austrian client and to make it more eco-friendly. These are our thoughts after twelve months in the field. What experience did we gain? What challenges had to be overcome? And what opportunities are there going forward?
Committing to an e-mobile future was a significant step in innovation and sustainability going forward. The idea had already occurred in 2019 to develop sustainable logistical processes for and with a major Austrian client. It wasn’t until 2023, however, that the technological prerequisites and the necessary infrastructure had been sufficiently developed that we could realize the project.
In consultation with Hofmann & Neffe, a pioneer of the e-mobility movement in Austria, we opted for a fully electric Volvo e-truck that meets all of our high-quality standards as well as the demands of our customers. The vehicle is at the exclusive disposal of ILG Innovative Logistics Group and is operated locally within a radius of approximately 30 miles (50km) around Linz.
After one year in the field, we can confirm that: The e-truck has more than proven itself time and time again. With an approximate range of between 125 (200) and 155 miles (250km), it performs reliably when challenged both in an intra-logistical context as well as out on regional deliveries. Even the most extreme weather conditions have minimal impact on the range. While frost or heat can reduce the range of electric cars by as much as 40%, the 10 to 15 % reduction experienced by the e-truck is impressively low.
Another factor crucial for success in the field is the charging infrastructure. Our collaboration with Hofmann & Neffe allows us access to a strategically and conveniently located charging station which is primarily powered by sustainably generated photo-voltaic electricity. This enables us to lean into zero-emission modes of transport, while also leveraging an environmentally friendly source of energy.
The success of our first fully electric truck has galvanized us in the pursuit of our strategy to further develop the e-mobility sector. From the third quarter of 2025 we intend to add a new Mercedes-Benz e-truck to our fleet which boasts a range of between approximately 250 (400) and 310 miles (500km). This vehicle can cover longer distances and further boost flexibility in our day-to-day operations.
Improvements in technology continue to yield new opportunities to expand our sphere of operations. The goal: to make e-mobility more commercially viable and sustainable, not only for intra-firm transportation, but for other logistical fields as well.
One year in the field has revealed that: E-mobility can be an effective and sustainable alternative within certain logistical fields. Intra-logistics and regional transportation in particular could benefit greatly from an integrated eco-system of zero-emission vehicles and EV charging infrastructure.
At ILG Innovative Logistics Group we prioritize innovation, premium quality and reliability, all the while focusing on the individual needs of our clients. We believe wholeheartedly that sustainability in logistics is more than just a trend, it is a long-term strategy for a sustainable, commercially viable and environmentally friendly approach to transportation going forward.
