South Africa aims for net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Electric delivery vehicles are a promising option for Dis-Chem to contribute to emission reduction in South Africa, but challenges like infrastructure and energy availability are still evident.
We started testing electric trucks at some of our distribution centres to establish how viable this is. The pilot has been successful for small pharmacy deliveries, but bigger vehicles that can handle pallets and travel large distances remain challenging. We are also still dependent on Eskom electricity for charging electric vehicles. Once we are able to roll out solar solutions and battery storage technology improves, an expanded fleet of electric vehicles will become an attractive option.
Forklifts in our distribution centres are currently powered by electric batteries.
Our stakeholders tell their stories
We launched “Better Health Starts Here” as a promise we make to ourselves, to each other and to every customer who walks through our doors. Better health outcomes are important for all our stakeholders. Find out why…
