Volvo Trucks North America customer Coca-Cola Canada Bottling Limited is accelerating its transition to zero-emission transport, expanding its fleet of Volvo VNR Electric trucks across multiple regions in Canada.
The latest rollout includes three new electric trucks deployed in Quebec City, with four additional units scheduled for delivery in Vancouver this spring. Once operational, the company’s nationwide electric fleet will approach 40 vehicles, marking a significant step forward in reducing carbon emissions while maintaining efficient distribution operations.
Scaling Electric Truck Adoption Across Canada
This expansion builds on a pilot program launched in Montreal in 2023, where Coca-Cola Canada Bottling first tested battery-electric vehicles in real-world conditions. The initiative has since evolved into a broader, multi-region deployment that includes electric vans, yard tractors, and heavy-duty trucks.
The Volvo VNR Electric is now playing a central role in the company’s logistics strategy, particularly on predictable, high-frequency delivery routes. These urban and regional operations are ideally suited to battery-electric technology, allowing seamless integration without compromising performance or reliability.
With a six-battery configuration, the VNR Electric offers a driving range of up to 440 kilometers (275 miles) on a single charge. This capability enables multiple daily round trips between distribution centers and customer locations—critical for maintaining consistent delivery schedules.
Charging Infrastructure Expands Alongside Fleet
To support the growing fleet, Coca-Cola Canada Bottling is investing in dedicated charging infrastructure. In Quebec City, a 180 kW Heliox Flex charger with three dispensers has been installed, while Vancouver facilities will feature two 180 kW chargers with a total of six dispensers.
This infrastructure ensures that vehicles remain operational throughout the day, minimizing downtime and maximizing route efficiency—an essential factor in commercial fleet electrification.
A Measured Approach to Fleet Electrification
The company’s “Red Fleet” strategy reflects a gradual, data-driven approach to electrification. By leveraging insights from early deployments and working closely with Volvo Trucks, Coca-Cola Canada Bottling continues to scale its electric operations based on proven performance.
The expansion highlights how electric trucks are becoming a practical solution for large-scale logistics, particularly in urban delivery environments where predictable routes and centralized charging can unlock maximum efficiency.
