IKEA in collaboration with BLR Logistiks, launches First Heavy-Duty Electric Truck on Indian Roads

MUMBAI : IKEA Supply, a division of the Inter IKEA Group, in collaboration with BLR Logistiks, has successfully deployed India’s first heavy-duty electric truck to run on the public road network in India. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the company’s sustainability and logistics strategy.

Commencing operations in October 2024, the electric vehicle recently completed its 100th journey, transporting goods between the port of Mumbai, IKEA’s distribution centre (DC) in Pune, and the IKEA store located in Mumbai. The deployment is expected to enhance operational efficiency by reducing turnaround time from two days to one.

Mr. Claes Lindgren, Acting Category Transport Manager at IKEA Supply Chain Operations, highlighted the long-term benefits of this initiative: “Despite the higher upfront investment in electric vehicles compared to diesel alternatives, we have achieved increased efficiency and long-term cost savings. This is a major step forward for IKEA and sends a strong message to the Indian transportation sector.”

Lindgren also noted that route optimization and reduced idle time during loading and unloading were made possible through close collaboration with BLR Logistiks.

Traditionally, the 120-kilometre, three-stop route was managed by two diesel-powered trucks—one operating between the port and the distribution centre, and the other between the distribution centre and the retail store. The newly introduced electric truck now covers the entire route, improving logistics flow and reducing environmental impact.

To facilitate the deployment, IKEA has implemented process enhancements with Indian customs for expedited container handling. Furthermore, new agreements between the ocean freight provider and the land transport carrier were established, while the latter invested in the necessary electric charging infrastructure to support operations.

Mr. Abhishek Goyal, Director of BLR Logistiks, expressed optimism about the project’s impact: “We are pleased with the progress made on this route and look forward to replicating this model in future operations. This deployment is a testament to how efficiency can be achieved while simultaneously lowering greenhouse gas emissions.”