Joint media release: Electric truck fleet leads the charge for cleaner heavy haulage
MP, Member for Gellibrand Australia’s biggest private logistics company is rolling out a fleet of heavy-duty electric trucks across Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide cutting diesel use, emissions and running costs on some of the country’s busiest freight routes. Linfox is putting the first of 26 battery-powered prime movers into service on heavy-hauling duties, including food and beverage distribution and integrated rail transport.
The trucks will cover about 500km a day, replacing diesel trucks on existing freight routes from Linfox’s hubs in Laverton North, and then from Willawong and the Adelaide rail freight terminal once deployed. The Albanese Government’s funding to this project is targeted to help overcome barriers to the adoption of electric trucks at scale, such as financial, operational, business model, and market sentiment barriers.
By demonstrating new technologies, application and business models, this grant from the Albanese Government’s Driving the Nation program will accelerate the uptake of BEVs. Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the new electric truck fleet would help cut diesel bills, lower transport emissions and prove heavy haulage has a strong electric future.
“This investment in electric trucks, fast chargers and onsite solar systems could deliver the biggest cut to Linfox’s fuel use, emissions and running costs in its seven-decade history," Minister Bowen said. When Linfox put in the biggest order for electric trucks in Australia, it was already the best decision for the future of the business and the 24,000 people it employs.
“And while governments across Australia continue to secure Australia’s supply of diesel and exhaust fluid, Linfox has taken a huge step to secure its energy security and consistently low running costs – today and for decades to come.” Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King welcomed Linfox’s investment.
“Freight is the backbone of the Australian economy, but it has historically been heavily exposed to global fuel markets. “Getting trucks on the road that are powered by electricity will ensure costs are more consistent for consumers and make our supply chains more resilient.” Local MP Tim Watts said this investment means cleaner air and quieter streets for his community in Melbourne’s west, while keeping Australia moving.
“Our government's Driving the Nation fund isn't just an environmental story, it's an economic one, where logistics companies like Linfox, with government support, are investing in the infrastructure and operations that keep our community moving and our workforce employed. “Anyone who lives near a busy freight route knows the noise. Electric trucks are significantly quieter, and that's a real quality-of-life win for our community in Melbourne’s west." The Albanese Government is delivering cheaper, cleaner transport options across the country, including helping major Australian retailers switch to battery-powered delivery fleets, and supporting fast-charging infrastructure.
Linfox’s heavy truck electrification project is backed by $19.63 million from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) through its Driving the Nation Program, which includes targeted funding for heavy battery electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. This announcement is in addition to $70 million to help more drivers drive Volvo heavy EVs and support skilled jobs in Volvo’s truck manufacturing plant in Queensland, through the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC).
For more information on ARENA support for Linfox’s new electric truck fleet, visit https://arena.gov.au/projects/linfox-heavy-truck-electrification-project/ We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.