Renault Trucks: First Electric Truck in Zentis Fleet

Decarbonization is shaping the agenda of the transport industry. Now the family-owned company Zentis from North Rhine-Westphalia has also incorporated a battery-electric truck into its logistics service. The Renault Trucks E-Tech T for regional distribution is equipped with a silo-trailer from Kässbohrer and aims to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions through the electrification of the Zentis fleet. The electrified combination now covers around 200 to 300 kilometers daily in the Aachen region, primarily to procure raw materials for food production such as fruit spreads, dairy products, and baked goods. How this came about is described by Renault Trucks in its report.

Focus on Food Transport

Zentis, through its subsidiary Zentis Logistik GmbH, operates a fleet of around 50 trucks, most of which are 40-tonners. The business unit of the Aachen-based company focuses on goods transport and specializes in food logistics, temperature-controlled deliveries, and fresh and frozen transportation. The goods are transported daily from the location east of Aachen to the food industry and retail sector, mainly in Western Europe.

Electrification with Renault Trucks' 360-Degree Approach

According to their own accounts, Renault Trucks is the first truck manufacturer to offer the entire range of commercial vehicles fully electric: From light commercial vehicles weighing 3.07 tons to 44-ton long-haul trucks. To support its customers in transitioning to electric mobility, the company, with its German headquarters in Ismaning, has developed the "360-Degree Approach" as a comprehensive consulting concept, guiding companies from the first step on their journey.

Customized Solution

In this manner, Zentis was also supported in implementing electromobility into its own logistics. "Starting with the first appointments, Zentis' goals and wishes were defined," writes Renault Trucks. Subsequently, determining the total cost of ownership (TCO) was on the agenda. Also included in the offer are a range analysis and planning the charging infrastructure. Finally, the configuration of the vehicle and the networking of the company with the appropriate charging infrastructure manufacturer takes place. "All aspects were considered to create a customized fully electric solution for Zentis."

Externally, the close cooperation between the fruit preparation manufacturer and the truck specialist is reflected in a specially created design. This new appearance is intended to mark a new "era". The report states:

"The striking green electric vehicle marks the beginning of a new era for Zentis and is a unique eye-catcher in the company's fleet."

The company Renault Trucks, founded in 1894 and with its French headquarters in Lyon, has been offering its fully electric vehicles in series since 2021. In addition, Renault Trucks is actively converting conventional diesel engines to battery-electric operation. According to their own statements, they are the first manufacturer to "convert diesel vehicles into electric trucks in the spirit of the circular economy."

They have set the goal of accelerating decarbonization within the company to "counteract the temperature rise on Earth," it is stated. The company intends to achieve "carbon neutrality" for vehicles introduced to the market from 2040 onwards.