Leading the way as innovators in the foodservice industry, Savona are now delivering to customers in North Devon and Oxford in pioneering dual-temperature vehicles which are 100% electric. These are the first of their kind in the UK and Europe.
“Much time, effort and investment has gone into getting the spec and design of these vehicles right” says Darren Holloway, Director of Central Operations. “The Maxus e – Deliver 9 vehicles are unique because the gross vehicle weight is uplifted from 3.5 to 4 tonnes, thereby compensating for the additional weight of the batteries. This allows the vehicle to provide a pay load of 1.2 tonnes, with dual temperature compartments and cover a range of 100 miles.”
Savona firmly believe that doing their bit to improve climate change is critical. Having calculated the impact their business has on the environment; the evidence shows that their fleet is the biggest contributor of Co2 emissions.
Compared to diesel vehicles, the electric vans will save 24,960 of carbon per year (based on a range of 120 miles per day, 6 days per week).
The decision to introduce these vehicles goes hand in hand with the selection of an energy provider that uses 100% renewable energy, which has removed 12% of Savona’s total carbon emissions.
The launch is particularly important when considering the geographic areas the wholesaler will be delivering to. North Devon is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which encourages a balance between people and the conservation of the environment. The area includes Woolacombe, which is a plastic-free town, and the economy sees 4 million tourists per year, most of whom visit because of the natural environment.
Oxford’s Council aim to move towards a zero-carbon transport system, starting with the Zero Emissions Zone (ZEZ). This is a pilot scheme encompassing 9 streets, and if successful, will cover the whole of the city centre, resulting in a cleaner, safer and better place for people who live in, work in and visit the area.
“Protecting our local environment means as much to our customers as it does to us”, comments Kelly Williams, Director. “This is just the beginning of our vehicle replacement program, and we’re proud to be innovators in our industry for the good of the planet”.
This is just one area of focus in Savona’s sustainability journey to reach net zero. They have already adopted other practices and systems, like eliminating single use plastics from its range, offering fully degradable takeaway boxers made of seaweed and switching to digital business cards.
Savona continue to evolve in making their systems, services and sustainability the best in the industry, in order to provide an outstanding customer experience.
