Australia Post has introduced its first heavy-duty electric truck and announced a renewable diesel partnership with Ampol.
The new Mercedes-Benz eActros, manufactured by Daimler Truck, marks the first heavy-duty electric vehicle to join Australia Post’s national fleet. The eActros produces zero tailpipe emissions, features advanced safety systems, and provides a quieter, more efficient driving experience suitable for both urban and regional freight routes.
Australia Post General Manager Network Assets and Implementation, Mitch Buxton, said the introduction of the eActros represents a significant step in assessing how large electric vehicles can operate within the organisation’s logistics network.
“Trialling the eActros will give us valuable insights into how heavy-duty electric vehicles can perform across our network. We’ve been investing in electric delivery vehicles for more than a decade, and this is the next step in building a cleaner, smarter and more resilient fleet for the future,” said Buxton.
“Introducing electric trucks is not without its challenges, from charging infrastructure to range and load capacity – but it’s a challenge we are excited to take on.”
Coinciding with the launch, Australia Post has entered into a partnership with Ampol to supply five million litres of Amplify Diesel R10 — a 10 per cent renewable diesel blend — to its Redbank Parcel Facility in Brisbane.
The renewable diesel will fuel the site’s existing fleet of 89 trucks over the next year, cutting lifecycle emissions without requiring engine modifications.
Together, these initiatives reflect Australia Post’s multi-solution approach to decarbonising one of the nation’s largest and most diverse transport fleets.
“We know there’s no single path to decarbonising a fleet of our size and scale. That’s why we’re exploring a range of cleaner alternatives, from electric vehicles to renewable diesel to
find the best mix to support the size of our operations. Each step helps us learn, adapt and keep driving on our path to target net zero emissions by 2050,” said Buxton.
Ampol General Manager B2B, Brad Phillips, said the company is proud to support Australia Post’s transition to cleaner transport energy.
“Renewable diesel has the potential to lower fuel lifecycle emissions as its manufactured from renewable feedstocks such as canola or waste products, and is a logical solution for hard to abate industries where fleet or infrastructure changes are not required,” said Phillips.
“We’re excited to support Australia Post in their journey through the energy transition.”
Read more: Australia Post launches first dedicated Parcels Post Office in Canberra
Read more: Australia Post to build $500 million parcel facility in South Australia