Sweden-based Scania, bearings manufacturer SKF, and LOTS Group have launched a long-distance route for battery electric trucks in Europe to reduce emissions.
Operated in partnership with Sweden’s transportation service Ahréns Åkeri, the new route aims to achieve a 97% reduction in well-to-wheel (WtW) CO₂ emissions.
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It is also expected to improve transport efficiency, with 85% of the vehicle’s yearly mileage driven with full loads.
The electric truck route will span 221,000km annually, potentially saving 298 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, which compares to the yearly CO₂ output of 210 passenger cars in Sweden.
The project’s strategy is to establish recurring loops with guaranteed volumes and high vehicle utilisation to mitigate the financial risks associated with investing in green technology.
The transition to electric vehicles is planned in phases, with initial flows being verified in early 2025 and full-scale operation expected by mid-year.
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By GlobalDataAhréns Åkeri operations manager Hampus Ahrén said: “By ensuring full capacity utilisation in both directions and optimised charging, we not only see significant environmental benefits but also a substantial improvement in operational efficiency.
“Long-term contracts and stable volumes enable us to invest in green technology, making this partnership both sustainable and economically advantageous.”
Operational parameters such as energy usage, electricity pricing, and vehicle utilisation are planned to be validated by the partnership before moving to full two-shift operations in 2025.
LOTS Group, a subsidiary of Scania, will use its platform to connect transport buyers and optimise logistics services.
Scania’s control tower will coordinate transport flows, and LOTS Group will manage route optimisation and charging using digital tools to enhance resource efficiency.
Scania head of ventures and new business Gustaf Sundell said: “The partnership between SKF, LOTS, and Scania demonstrates that freight transport with battery electric vehicles is feasible, not just for shorter urban routes but also for long-distance and heavy transport. This partnership aligns with Scania’s purpose to drive the shift towards a sustainable transport system.”
