FedEx Express Europe began using renewable diesel in part of its Netherlands-based linehaul truck fleet.
Heavyweight, long-distance trucks are running on the fossil fuel alternative when they leave the recently reopened FedEx Express Road hub in Duiven, Netherlands. The fuel is derived from organic matter or waste materials.
The logistics behemoth plans to transition its parcel pick-up and delivery operation to a fully electric fleet by 2040. But decarbonizing heavyweight transportation is more challenging.
The required mileage range, time needed to refuel, and the fact that, by the very nature of their operation, heavy goods vehicles travel between territories means they often require refueling in multiple countries.
The renewable diesel program is limited to the Netherlands, where it is encouraged on the continental routes, according to FedEx.
FedEx’s pledge to achieve global carbon-neutral operations by 2040 includes all company-owned and operated transportation, including parcel pick-up and delivery, European linehaul trucking and aircraft. Scope 3 emissions, generated by FedEx’s outside transportation contractors, are also included in the effort.
Renewable diesel is one of several diesel fuel alternatives the industry is exploring to lower emissions. Medium- and heavy-duty trucks account for only 4% of all vehicles on the world’s roads, but they account for 40% of all road transport emissions and one-third of total transport fuel use.
FedEx isn’t alone in venturing into renewable fuel. Last week, Penske Truck Leasing expanded a renewable diesel partnership with Shell to fuel its truck rental and heavy-duty leasing fleet. All vehicles filling up at Penske Truck Leasing’s 32 fueling locations in California will run on renewable diesel.