A carrier from Birmingham, which has been a benchmark in logistics for more than 30 years, has the first operator in the second city to add an all-electric truck to its fleet.
PGS Global Logistics (PGS), founded in Mackadown Lane, Kitts Green, has taken a step towards a carbon-neutral operation by adding the Volvo FM EV 4×2 tractor to its growing range of electric vehicles.
To date, PGS has already invested in a fleet of 10 EVs for use in its warehouses and on the street, and plans to further increase the number of EVs for its fleet through 2024.
The Volvo truck will be used for overnight transport in its operations for the Pallet-Track Network and APC Overnight Parcel Network.
It will be charged by day solely from solar generated energy at the company’s £12 million West Bromwich logistics hub, which opened in 2023 and is fully-equipped for energy capture and electricity generation.
The 80,000-square-foot facility generated 71% of its own power in November 2023, meaning it will be completely off-grid and self-sufficient until the spring and summer months arrive.
The new Volvo FM EV Globetrotter tractor was supplied through the Hartshorne Group and includes six batteries generating 490 kW (666 hp). The truck is also equipped with full air suspension, Volvo dynamic steering, a full air kit with side skirts, I-See predictive cruise and a full Volvo Connect package.
PGS founder and chief executive Paul Eyles said the West Bromwich site already generates enough power to allow it to add even more electric cars to its fleet.
He said: “We are proud to be the first company in Birmingham to operate an all-electric Arctic and this is evidence that our new eco-site in West Bromwich already gives us much more than garage space; supporting our valued consumers and achieving our own goals. “Carbon neutrality goals.
“To be 71% self-sufficient during a winter month is a wonderful thing. So eventually we’ll be able to run off-grid and create even more capacity to qualify electric vehicles. “
PGS is already putting its words into practice in this regard, with two new electric vans commissioned to service its APC Overnight parcel services.
The vans have a range of 200 miles, versus the 90 offered by the previous model, allowing PGS to take another step forward in offering local businesses smarter and more sustainable services, supporting their growth and enabling them to service a national customer base.
“At a time when our consumers in West Bromwich and the West Midlands are passionate about protecting the environment, we are committed to supporting their expansion and offering them smarter, more effective service features so they thrive for years to come. Our development The fleet power is based on this commitment,” Paul added.
Stuart Godman, CEO at Pallet-Track, said: “As a network, we’ve set our sights on being disruptors in the market and this forward-thinking approach at PGS is a stand out example of such.
“Many corporations talk shamelessly when it comes to ESG agendas and decarbonization programs, but PGS certainly follows suit as well. They are at the forefront of reducing environmental impact and we hope others follow their lead by making their fleet and storage much more cleaner and more ecological.
Jonathan Smith, APC’s chief executive, said: “Last year saw PGS make a transparent commitment to building a more sustainable long-term with the launch of its eco-friendly site.
“This marks yet another step forward in PGS’ commitment to ensure the business is well placed to navigate the continued evolution of our industry. PGS continues to set a fantastic example across the APC network, ensuring our customers continue to get improved, more efficient and more sustainable service options.”
Brian Cronin, Chief Commercial Officer at Hartshorne Group, said: “We are very pleased to be collaborating with PGS, who are driving the shift towards a more sustainable future. “