Harrods – the world-famous luxury department store – has taken delivery of its first fully-electric DAF XD Electric 270 4x2 rigid at 20-tonne GVW. Supplied by long-standing rental and contract hire partner, Alltruck, the delivery marks a major step in Harrods’ sustainability strategy as it looks to decarbonise its logistics operations serving London and the south of England.
As part of an 18-month evaluation programme, Harrods has also placed an order for a DAF XB Electric 4x2 rigid at 12 tonnes GVW, while an XD Electric tractor unit will be taken later this year for initial trials. All vehicles are being supplied by DAF Dealer, Ford & Slater.
Powered by a four-pack battery system delivering 420kWh, the DAF XD Electric 270 achieves an impressive 200-mile single-charge range. Rapid charging to 100% takes just 90 minutes, while a 20%-80% charge is reached in under an hour. Thanks to the XD Electric’s 10-tonne front axle and clever rearward battery placement, Harrods payload requirements remain uncompromised despite the weight penalty. The vehicle also benefits from a 4-star Direct Vision Standard (DVS) rating as standard.
Harrods has a proud history with electric transport stretching back over a century.
The truck will operate daily between Harrods’ iconic Knightsbridge store and its Thatcham distribution centre – completing two round trips on a single charge – with plans to extend to Harrods’ ‘H beauty’ stores across the south.
Paul Robinson, Chairman at Alltruck plc, said, “Our relationship with Harrods stretches back to 1994 and is built on mutual trust. We’ve supported Harrods through its cleaner transport technology journey, from Euro-3 right through to renewable fuels, and now with its first fully electric DAF truck. This vehicle is the result of extensive collaboration between Harrods, Alltruck, DAF Trucks, and our partners, to make sure it delivers operationally, while reflecting the prestige of the Harrods brand. We’re extremely proud to see it on the road, showcasing both zero-emissions technology and Harrods’ commitment to sustainability.”
Camilla Cross, Distribution Operations Manager - Transport & Facilities at Harrods, said, “Harrods is a world-famous name, and our logistics operation must reflect that standard. We’ve been exploring ways to reduce our environmental impact while maintaining the exceptional service our customers expect. This DAF XD Electric is the first electric truck capable of meeting our demanding route between Knightsbridge and Thatcham on a single charge – and it opens-up opportunities to serve our regional H beauty stores, too. Alltruck has been our trusted partner for decades because they understand our needs and only bring us vehicles that work for our business. This delivery is an important milestone in our journey to a lower-carbon future.”
Harrods has a proud history with electric transport stretching back over a century, when it first deployed battery-powered delivery vehicles to serve customers in London. This new DAF XD Electric marks the latest chapter in that heritage and a significant step forward in its long-term journey toward on-road sustainability.
