In France, Pepsi makes a different choice than the Tesla Semi

For its logistics transportation, Pepsi France has decided to adopt electric trucks to reduce its carbon footprint, but not Tesla.

This is just the beginning of a major movement that, within 10 years, aims to shift the freight sector predominantly towards electric trucks. Why? Because the technology is now mature, daily routes are consistent and planned accordingly, and significant savings are at stake.

First and foremost, savings in CO2 and other pollutants, but also financial savings. In a time when fuel prices are soaring and geopolitical tensions are at their peak, the energy independence offered by electric vehicles ensures greater medium-term stability.

7 electric trucks to start

While in the United States, PepsiCo chose to promote its technical partnership with Tesla and its Semi truck, in France another approach was taken. It’s difficult to do otherwise, as the Tesla Semi is not yet homologated or produced, for now, in Europe. The American beverage company set an ambitious goal: reduce its CO2 emissions by 40% by 2030.

To achieve this goal, PepsiCo France has entered into a strategic partnership with GXO, a major global logistics player, to deploy its first electric trucks. These vehicles, from Volvo Trucks, began operating on July 22, 2024, a symbolic date marking the opening of the Paris Olympic Games. They are deployed from the Lagny-Le-Sec site, managed by GXO, in the Paris region.

These electric trucks offer several significant advantages:

• No-emission transport: each truck prevents the emission of 50 tons of CO2 per year.
• Quiet operation: discreet functioning for more pleasant urban deliveries and better driver comfort.
• Regulatory compliance: adapted to Carbon Tax requirements and Low Emission Zones (LEZ).
• Technical performance: 300 km range, maximum power of 490 kW, and total capacity up to 44 tons.

Currently, these electric trucks serve the Paris region for off-site deliveries and supply PepsiCo France warehouses. Meanwhile, a study is underway to install charging stations at the Lagny-Le-Sec site, with current recharging taking place at the Enerjump station in Mitry-Compans, opened in June 2024.

By the end of 2025, PepsiCo France plans to expand its fleet of electric trucks by adding five new vehicles in the northern part of the country, bringing the total to seven electric tractors.

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