Foodstuffs trialling electric Nissan delivery vans

A trial of Nissan e-NV 200 electric delivery vans by the Foodstuffs grocery co-operative at New World and PAK’nSAVE supermarkets in 2017 is receiving funding support from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

Foodstuff is importing 28 Nissan e-NV 200 vehicles during 2017 from the European factory. Once fully charged the e-NV 200 is capable of travelling up to 150 kilometres at a time without generating either noise or emissions.

“This is the first time for New Zealand that a commercial electric vehicle fleet of this size is under trial,” says Foodstuffs North Island Ltd chief executive Chris Quin.

“The funding will go towards the implementation of the EV delivery vans at New World and PAK’nSAVE stores across the North and South Island,” he says.

According to Quin, the initial interest from stores to the proposed electric vehicle trial was incredibly positive.

“Our owners recognise and support Foodstuffs’ commitment to be more sustainable and at the leading edge of new technology. Our business practices are continually evolving to be more sustainable,” says Quin.

“It fits in perfectly with Foodstuffs drive to reduce environmental impacts. The electricity powering the vehicles is 100% locally generated and over 80% renewably generated through hydro, wind and geothermal sources – meaning we are investing in both New Zealand‘s economy and its environment,” he says.

Foodstuffs are also discussing with EECA the possible installation of separate public electric vehicle charging points at key New World and PAK’nSAVE store locations throughout the country.

“The idea is that providing easily accessible charging facilities will encourage the public to transition away from petrol and diesel cars to electric vehicles. You will be able to charge your car while grabbing your groceries,” says Quin