Tesco has deployed the first of 151 electric Iveco eDaily chassis cabs as strives to decarbonise its fleet operations.

The two-battery vehicle has been specified to optimise payload and range. A further 150 Iveco eDaily two-battery models will be deployed towards the end of 2024.

Joining the Tesco Horwich home delivery fleet, this first new eDaily enables zero-emissions deliveries to customers via its modular battery setup.

Its electric motor efficiently provides 140kW and 400Nm of torque and is capable of rapid charging at 80kW, with 62 miles of range added in 30 minutes.

A 22kW onboard charger, meanwhile, enables Tesco to maximise charging from AC chargers at local stores.

The Iveco eDaily was designed with bodybuilders in mind, with the refrigerated Solomon Commercials body able to take full advantage of 15kW of e-PTO onboard power to cool perishable goods while on delivery missions.

A second 12V e-PTO provides low-voltage power for additional cooling from the GAH Transport Refrigeration fridge, creating a totally self-sustaining zero-emissions vehicle.

Tesco is also utilising the eDaily’s connectivity features that can control the vehicle's driving modes, remotely selecting the best for optimised performance and efficiency.

Rob Smallwood, Tesco’s fleet manager, said: “The delivery of the Iveco eDaily electric home delivery van to our Horwich store is an exciting step as we move towards a fully electric fleet across the UK by 2030.

“The extended range the eDaily offers will enable us to reach more customers in a single trip at our bigger catchments stores, and help us reach our commitment to be carbon neutral in our own operations by 2035.”

The Iveco Daily has been a familiar sight on the nationwide Tesco delivery fleet since 2010.  

Iveco UK light business-line director, Mike Cutts, said “The Iveco eDaily is one of the most innovative electric vehicles in its segment, and we are delighted that Tesco continues its Iveco Daily journey with this new EV.

“In addition to the total cost of ownership benefits eDaily affords, this fleet will also dramatically reduce delivery emissions.”