McDonald’s Canada announced on Wednesday it has added its first-ever electric vehicle to its distribution fleet, trialing a new Volvo VNR Electric Class 8 tractor through supply chain distribution partner, Martin Brower.
The trial will see the Volvo VNR Electric Class 8 semi truck distribute supplies for restaurants in the Montreal, Quebec, area. McDonald’s Canada says this test is part of its larger plan to transition to a lower-emission vehicles for its supply chain across the country to over 1,400 restaurants, “where feasible.”
The Volvo VNR was leased by Martin Brower, with the electric semi truck based out of its distribution centre located in Montréal’s Baie d’Urfé area. The electric semi will pull McDonald’s-branded trailers to local restaurants within 150 km range (93 miles). McDonald’s says the trial will test the tractor’s performance in various weather conditions. Montreal winters are cold, so it’s likely electric range will be impacted.
“This trial has the potential to influence a major shift in the way we approach supply chain distribution that will bring us closer to reaching McDonald’s net zero emissions goals. Considering the potential impact the trial could have on our business and our reduction commitments, this is an extremely significant moment for the company,” said Jacques Mignault, President and CEO, McDonald’s Canada, in a statement.
“We’re grateful to collaborate with partners like Martin Brower and Volvo Trucks North America who share our vision, and acknowledge the support from the Québec government on this initiative,” added Mignault.
Volvo’s VNR offers up to 275-mile range and battery capacity of 565 kWh and 90 minutes to charge up to 80%.
Later in 2022, McDonald’s will also trial the electric Volvo VNR in Brampton, Ontario.
McDonald’s says globally it plans to hit net-zero emissions for its operations by 2050.
