In an inspiring move toward greener logistics, FedEx has begun powering its U.K. fleet with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). As of September 2024, more than 170 linehaul trucks across three U.K. locations—Parkhouse, Marston Gate, and Atherstone—have shifted to using HVO as a sustainable fuel alternative to diesel. This transition is part of a two-year agreement with supplier Crown Oil, securing at least four million liters of HVO annually.
By embracing HVO, FedEx expects to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by at least 80%, marking a significant milestone in its journey to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040. As the company’s senior manager for U.K. Road Network Operations, James Richards, emphasized, the switch to HVO is not just a temporary experiment but a pivotal change in operations. FedEx has already clocked 36,000 miles each week on alternative fuel, showcasing the reliability and scalability of HVO in their European road network.
This initiative follows an eight-month trial in both the U.K. and the Netherlands, where FedEx tested HVO’s viability as a “drop-in” fuel, meaning it can be used directly in diesel engines without modifications. The trial demonstrated HVO’s effectiveness in reducing emissions from heavy goods vehicles, making it the preferred option for large-scale deployment.
But it’s not just the trucks that are benefiting. As part of the agreement, 16 ground service equipment tugs used at these sites are also shifting to HVO. This move further illustrates the company’s commitment to reducing its overall carbon footprint while electrification of some equipment remains impractical.
The Path Forward: How VURDHAAN Supports Sustainable Road Transport
At VURDHAAN, we actively champion the adoption of greener fuels like HVO within the road transport sector. Our expertise in helping organizations navigate sustainable solutions, from HVO to fleet electrification and adherence to Green Freight Programs, aligns closely with FedEx’s forward-thinking initiatives. We assist companies in exploring and implementing low-carbon alternatives, ensuring compliance with global regulations like CARB and the US EPA, and contributing to long-term sustainability goals.
FedEx’s transition to HVO is a testament to how the transport sector can take actionable steps toward decarbonization without compromising operational efficiency. At VURDHAAN, we understand the challenges and opportunities this shift presents. We provide support, education, and implementation services to help fleets make the switch to sustainable fuels and future-proof their operations.
As the industry continues to evolve, we remain committed to driving positive environmental change, helping businesses achieve similar success in reducing their emissions and enhancing their sustainability performance.