Pet Valu, one of Canada’s leading specialty pet retailers, has taken a significant step toward sustainability by adding two Volvo VNR Electric semi-trucks to its logistics fleet. These whisper-quiet, zero-emission trucks are part of the company’s efforts to create a more efficient and environmentally friendly supply chain.
While these trucks may not have the familiar purr of a well-tuned diesel engine, they offer a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable solution for transporting pet supplies across Canada. Let’s take a closer look at how Pet Valu is leading the way in sustainable logistics.
Why Pet Valu Is Going Electric
Pet Valu is well-known for its wide range of pet food, toys, and accessories that help keep pets happy and healthy. However, the company is also committed to reducing its environmental impact, especially when it comes to air pollution from transportation.
By switching to electric delivery trucks, Pet Valu aims to:
Reduce diesel fuel consumption by over 25,000 liters per truck per year
Lower CO2 emissions by more than 62 tonnes annually per truck
Improve air quality by eliminating tailpipe emissions
Explore further fleet electrification in the future
“At Pet Valu, we are committed to continuously improving how we serve devoted pet lovers and their pets,” says Nico Weidel, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Pet Valu. “Each electric delivery truck represents an opportunity to avoid consuming over 25,000 liters of diesel fuel or over 62 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year. We’re excited to explore how these trucks perform and assess the potential for further electrification of our delivery fleet in the future.”
The Specs: Volvo VNR Electric Trucks
Pet Valu’s new electric semi-trucks are Volvo VNR Electric Class 8 day cab trucks, equipped with a 565 kWh six-battery pack configuration. These trucks offer an operating range of up to 442 kilometers (275 miles) per charge, making them ideal for regional deliveries.
Key Features of the Volvo VNR Electric Trucks
Battery Capacity: 565 kWh (six-battery pack)
Range per Charge: Up to 442 km (275 miles)
Charging Speed: Ultra-fast charging capable, but Pet Valu will use overnight charging at 120 kW chargers at its Surrey distribution center
The ability to charge overnight ensures that the trucks are fully powered and ready for daily operations, making them a practical and efficient solution for Pet Valu’s logistics needs.
Government Incentives for Electric Trucks
Electric trucks come with a higher upfront cost compared to diesel alternatives. However, Pet Valu has worked with Volvo Trucks North America to secure federal and provincial funding to help offset these costs.
Funding Programs Used by Pet Valu:
Clean BC – Go Electric Program (British Columbia)
iMHZEV (Incentives for Medium- and Heavy-Duty Zero-Emission Vehicles) Program (Canada)
These incentive programs are designed to encourage businesses to transition to electric vehicles, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a cleaner future.
Volvo’s Growing Electric Truck Fleet
Pet Valu is joining a growing list of companies that have adopted Volvo’s electric trucks, contributing to millions of zero-emission miles driven worldwide.
Volvo’s Class 8 Electric Truck Milestones:
- Volvo is preparing to launch its next-generation VNL and FH electric semis later this year
- This will be Volvo’s third generation of Class 8 electric trucks
- The company has over 100,000,000 miles of real-world data collected from its fleet
“As they venture into sustainable transportation, this effort is expected to not only strengthen their supply chain but also help support a healthier planet, one ‘purr-fectly’ quiet kilometer at a time,” says Matthew Blackman, Managing Director for Canada, Volvo Trucks North America.
Pet Valu’s decision to electrify its logistics fleet with Volvo VNR Electric trucks is a major step forward in sustainability. By reducing fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and air pollution, the company is setting an example for other businesses in the pet supply industry.
With support from government incentives and Volvo’s expertise, Pet Valu’s transition to electric vehicles could pave the way for a fully electrified fleet in the future. As more businesses embrace electric trucks, the transportation industry moves closer to a cleaner, greener future—one quiet, emission-free kilometer at a time.
FAQ’s
Why did Pet Valu add electric trucks to its fleet?
Pet Valu is committed to sustainability. By adding Volvo VNR Electric trucks, they aim to reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions, and create a more eco-friendly supply chain.
What are the key specifications of Pet Valu’s electric trucks?
The Volvo VNR Electric trucks have a 565 kWh battery, a 442 km (275-mile) range, and charge overnight using a 120 kW charger at Pet Valu’s Surrey distribution center.
How much fuel and CO2 emissions will these trucks save?
Each truck will save over 25,000 liters of diesel fuel per year and reduce CO2 emissions by over 62 tonnes annually.
Did Pet Valu receive financial incentives for these electric trucks?
Yes, Pet Valu secured funding from Canadian programs like Clean BC – Go Electric and iMHZEV to help offset the high upfront costs of battery-electric semis.
What impact will these electric trucks have on the environment?
The Volvo VNR Electric trucks will eliminate tailpipe emissions, reduce air pollution, and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable transportation industry.