The transportation industry in Portugal is undergoing a significant shift towards sustainability with a groundbreaking collaboration between IKEA, Scania, KLOG, and the Portuguese Port Authority of Leixões (APDL). This collaboration aims to revolutionize heavy-duty electric transport by deploying battery-electric vehicles to transport IKEA products from the IKEA Industry factory in Paços de Ferreira to various locations.
This initiative, set to launch in late June, marks a crucial step towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transport practices in Portugal. The discussions that led to this collaboration were initiated by IKEA Supply Chain Operations and Scania Group back in 2023, highlighting the long-term vision and commitment of the involved parties.
The electrification of heavy transport in Portugal presents unique challenges, including the development of local infrastructure and the calculation of routes, energy use, and charging time for electric vehicles. However, through strategic planning and collaboration, IKEA Industry will implement a pick-and-drop solution to maximize vehicle uptime and avoid empty trucks during transportation.
The efforts of IKEA, Scania, KLOG, and APDL demonstrate a shared commitment to driving the shift towards a sustainable transport system. By working together across the value chain, these companies are setting an example for others in the industry to follow. The deployment of electric goods transportation in Portugal not only promotes environmental sustainability but also showcases the potential for innovation and excellence in logistics services.
Egídio Lopes, Managing Director at KLOG, expressed pride in being among the first in Portugal to implement electric goods transportation, emphasizing the company’s vision of becoming a leader in logistics services with a focus on quality and responsible environmental practices. Similarly, João Neves, President of the Board of APDL, highlighted the organization’s commitment to sustainable development and the transition to a carbon-neutral future through electrified transports.
As the initiative to deploy heavy-duty electric vehicles for transporting IKEA products unfolds in Portugal, it serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in driving sustainable change within the transportation industry. The success of this project will not only benefit the environment but also inspire other companies to adopt similar practices and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.