The electric van, added to the UAE logistics fleet, is part of Unilever’s Net Zero strategy
Unilever Arabia recently announced the addition of the first-ever Electric Van (EV) to its fleet in the UAE.
Making deliveries to its key customers in Dubai as of this March, the incorporation of the 1-tonne battery-powered van signifies a major stride in Unilever’s efforts towards reduced emissions via its logistics operations and achieving net zero value chain emissions by 2039, the company said in a press notification.
As part of a strategic partnership with leading retailer, Carrefour, owned and operated by Majid Al Futtaim in the UAE, the EV van will initially deliver Unilever’s products to Carrefour’s Mall of the Emirates store. This will provide customers in Dubai with a sustainable delivery solution, reducing emissions by up to 15 per cent in comparison with traditional vehicles.
The region’s first EV van was launched in the presence of Youssef Lootah, CEO, Corporate Strategy and Performance Sector, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) along with Ahmed Kadous, Unilever’s Head of Supply Chain MENA & PC Middle East & Turkey; Khalil Yassine, Head of Unilever Arabia, and Luc Charrier Vice President, Merchandise, Carrefour, Majid Al Futtaim Retail.
Core ambition
“The introduction of electric vehicles to our delivery fleet is a core ambition and is central to Unilever’s sustainability commitment. We look forward to working more closely with the public sector and industry to further expand the infrastructure and seamlessly support the transition to electric mobility,” remarked Kadous.
“We are committed to sourcing and delivering sustainably sourced produce as part of our ‘Dare Today, Change Tomorrow’ strategy,” commented Bertrand Loumaye, Country Manager, Carrefour.
Prior to joining the existing fleet, the EV van underwent a series of planning and testing to ensure its readiness and compliance. These included driver training, vehicle maintenance, insurance and on-site charging port installation in collaboration with the EV distributor, Emirates Global Electric Motors, a member of Al Fahim group, and leading global logistics provider, DB Schenker, the press note concluded.
