In 2008, Feldschlösschen and Volvo Trucks (Schweiz) AG decided to carry out a first joint test phase with electric vans, the result being five electric vehicles, which Volvo Trucks presented to Feldschlösschen on 24 June 2010 at a press conference in Rheinfelden. The vehicles are CO2-free and produce neither engine noise nor exhaust fumes.
Test run in cooperation with project partners
The test run was supported by the Federal Office of Energy, the organisation e'mobile, Volvo Trucks (Switzerland) AG, and AEW Energie AG, who provided the electricity from 100% hydropower. The electric vehicles were chosen not only from a technical perspective, but also in consideration of their acceptance by Feldschlösschen's drivers, third party reactions, as well as the general potential application of the vehicles. The electric vehicles from the English company Modec proved their performance and reliability in throughout the whole of Feldschlösschen's Swiss distribution network.
Decision for the purchase of five electric vehicles
The good driving characteristics and the minimal energy consumption convinced Feldschlösschen of the electric vans, despite the 20% higher costs compared to conventional diesel vans. The vehicles have a maximum range of 160 km, a maximum speed of 80 km/h, a total weight of about 5 tonnes and a maximum load of approximately 2.7 tonnes, making them perfectly suited for use in congested urban areas. Feldschlösschen has been using the five CO2-free electric vans for its deliveries to restaurants and bars in the urban areas of Basel, Zurich, Bern, Geneva, as well as in Ticino since June 2010.
Vision of CO2-free logistics
Feldschlösschen's logistics structure is based on a two-step distribution system. The initial distribution from the brewery to the 17 local logistics facilities throughout Switzerland is carried out by rail and road. Smaller vehicles, some of which are the new electric vehicles, execute the subsequent distribution from the logistics facilities. Feldschlösschen's vehicle fleet consists of about 200 vans. Sixty percent of the initial distribution is already done by rail, which constitutes a significant contribution towards environmental protection.
Feldschlösschen takes its environmental responsibility seriously and by far exceeds the minimum requirements specified by law. Switzerland's leading brewery aims to reduce its CO2 emissions by at least 4% per year. With its purchase of five electric vans, Feldschlösschen makes yet another contribution to protecting our environment.
The Carlsberg Group is proud of being one of the most energy efficient global brewers. However, we recognise that as a successful, growing brewer, we need to reduce our C02 emissions even further. Initiatives such as Feldschösschen's use of electric vans will help us achieve this goal