Gregory Group which operates a dedicated pallet distribution service from six of its 50 UK depots for Palletways UK across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset, has invested in six new 19t rigid fully electric Volvo vehicles to boost urban deliveries.

Apart from an existing EV operating solely in London for a major brewing client, it’s the first significant venture outside of the capital for Gregory in electric vehicles - with all six in use predominantly across city centre locations, with further plans to invest in other EVs in 2025.

Gregory Group’s Liam Dickinson, Head of Fleet – Technical, comments: “The purchase of these vehicles further helps us along our net zero path. Our fleet team works closely with our sustainability colleagues to make sure we introduce the right alternative fuel vehicles to help us deliver this strategy by 2038.

“Already the reports from drivers and our fleet team are extremely positive. With around 1,100 traction assets in our fleet, we expect to introduce more EVs over the next few years when we fully understand their range capability. We’ll be stress testing the vehicles on longer and more arduous routes over the coming months to assess this.”

Each 19t chassis (with 1t EV dispensation) can carry up to 14 pallets with a payload of over 8500kg.

Gregory LGV driver, Steve Murphy, adds: “I was a bit hesitant at first, but the new Volvo EV is brilliant. It doesn’t shy away from anything and glides along. It’s a very different driving method but once learnt it is easy to drive and more relaxing than a diesel. And the range is great. I think these trucks are well suited to my job because we do a lot of drops in a relatively condensed area which means I can complete my entire route and have charge left over. People are very curious by it too. They stop and ask me about it, and I tell them ‘It’s where we are going as a business and as an industry.’ It’s a real honour to be part of the company’s shift to a greener future.”

Gregory Group is one of over 120 independent transport providers that are part of the Palletways UK network.  Network Director, Warwick Trimble concluded: “With many members, large and small now, trialling, leasing or purchasing electric vehicles, it’s exciting to see the green transformation happening across the logistics industry. As one of the largest privately owned transport companies in the UK, Gregory Group’s vehicles are a familiar sight on our roads and their net zero commitment is commendable.”

Together Palletways members benefit from shared expertise and resources from within the group to deliver consignments of palletised freight to market faster and more cost-effectively than ever before. The Palletways Group, renowned for its industry-leading IT developments and operational systems, comprises 450+ depots and 20 hub operations, through which it provides collection and distribution services across 24 European countries, including the UK.