Palletways member Darcica Logistics has taken delivery of its first fully electric 3.5-tonne truck, allowing it to offer zero-emission deliveries and collections in Oxford. With the city’s zero emission zone (ZEZ) set to expand, the Bicester-based business said its Maxus Luton edeliver 9, with a 900kg tail-lift, is the first EV in Oxfordshire to deliver pallets.

“The logistics transportation industry has one of the biggest impacts on the environment, and we want to lead the way in reducing its carbon output. We estimate the truck will save 5.71 tonnes of CO2 a year and means we can continue to service customers in the ZEZ with sustainable deliveries via our fully electric fleet,” commented Darcica Owner, Anthony Tattersall.

The family-run and owned SME launched during the pandemic and has a clear commitment to reducing emissions, waste, water and energy. The company said it aims to remain a frontrunner in electric vehicles, having already replaced its diesel vans with electric. It is also using electric forklift trucks in its depot.

“Darcica’s green credentials are to be applauded. The company sets an excellent example to the haulage industry at a time when it’s never been more important to make journeys more sustainable and reduce our carbon footprint. This is the first of many developments for Palletways UK along the road of alternative fuels and the EV revolution,” added Warwick Trimble, UK network director for Palletways.

Darcica became a winning sustainable logistics business in the 2022 Oxfordshire Business Awards (OXBA), and was a finalist in the Cherwell Business Awards for New Business, Sustainable Business and Business Person of the Year.