Amazon Commits to UK’s Largest Rollout of Electric HGVs
March 3, 2025 | By Paragon Resources
In a major move toward decarbonising road transport, Amazon has announced the UK’s largest-ever order of electric heavy goods vehicles (eHGVs). The tech giant is adding over 140 Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 electric trucks and eight Volvo FM battery-electric vehicles to its UK fleet, dramatically scaling up from its current nine electric HGVs.
Once deployed, these vehicles are expected to handle over 300 million packages per year—significantly reducing emissions across Amazon’s logistics network.
Electrifying the Fleet
Over the next 18 months, the new trucks will be introduced across key logistics routes. To support this transition, Amazon is also investing in advanced charging infrastructure. New 360kW rapid chargers are being installed at major UK delivery hubs, capable of charging a 40-tonne eActros 600 from 20% to 80% in just over an hour.
The eActros 600 models boast an impressive 310-mile (500km) range, making them a practical solution for long-haul deliveries.
Government Collaboration Fuels Transition
Part of Amazon’s expanded fleet—around 20 Mercedes-Benz trucks and all eight Volvos—are being introduced through the UK government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme. This initiative is partially funded by the Department for Transport and delivered in collaboration with Innovate UK, helping drive the adoption of zero-emission logistics solutions nationwide.
Rail Deliveries and Urban Innovation
Beyond road transport, Amazon is also scaling up its use of electric rail freight in the UK. For the first time, the company is moving large volumes of customer goods on the fully electrified West Coast Main Line, connecting Scotland to the Midlands. Products are then collected near Amazon facilities and prepared for last-mile delivery.
This year alone, more than 20 million packages are expected to travel via the UK’s electric rail network, with further expansion of routes planned.
Amazon is also pushing boundaries in urban delivery. In partnership with boroughs across London, the company has launched on-foot delivery pilots. Delivery associates are equipped with restockable carts, allowing them to make multiple stops with minimal vehicle usage. This new approach reduces congestion and emissions in dense city areas.
A Shift in How Goods Move
Nicola Fyfe, Amazon’s EU Vice President of Logistics, sees this as a pivotal moment:
“Decarbonising our transport network is essential to reaching our net-zero target by 2040. These new electric HGVs, our use of electric rail, and on-foot delivery trials are all steps toward a zero-exhaust emissions future.”
Logistics UK’s Deputy Director of Policy, Michelle Gardner, echoed the sentiment, calling the announcement a clear sign of the sector’s intent to embrace cleaner alternatives.
Support from Government and Local Authorities
Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood praised Amazon’s efforts, noting their alignment with the government’s £200 million investment in the ZEHID programme.
“Business has a vital role in greening our roads. Amazon’s commitment, backed by public investment, supports our ambition to become a clean energy superpower.”
Scaling Sustainable Delivery
Amazon now operates electric delivery vehicles—including e-cargo bikes and vans—across major UK cities like London, Glasgow, Manchester, Belfast and Norwich. Over 70% of deliveries in London’s Congestion Charge zone are now made using electric or zero-emission alternatives.
Since 2022, Amazon has made over 150 million zero-emission deliveries using electric vans and bikes, with over 500,000 delivery routes redesigned to eliminate fossil fuel usage.
