Ocado Zoom launches trial of electric assisted and pedal-powered vehicles
Ocado Zoom, the rapid grocery delivery service owned by Ocado Retail, is testing out delivery by electric assisted and pedal-powered vehicles from its flagship site in West London.
Running until 10 February, the trial uses electric refrigerated vans, refrigerated electric assisted vehicles and pedal-powered cargo bikes, which can travel up to 40 miles thanks to their refrigeration capabilities.
Ocado said every delivery made in the new vehicles is zero-emitting and replaces the need for the use of a petrol van, car or moped.
George Dean, head of Ocado Zoom, said: “We’re really excited to see a new generation of vehicles out on the road. We’re committed to reducing our carbon footprint and being the best neighbour we can, whilst delivering groceries to our customers as fast as possible. This trial is an important step in what I hope will be a rapid expansion of our non-emitting fleet”.
Ocado Zoom customers can select from a range of 10,000 products including fresh food, baked goods, frozen items and other groceries. They can also choose to receive their delivery ASAP or later on the same day. Ocado said the fastest order on record is eight minutes, although the average delivery time is 40 minutes. Shoppers must spend a minimum of £15 and delivery typically costs £2.99.
As part of Ocado Retail’s expansion plans, Ocado Zoom will open several more sites around London by 2025. Electric vehicles used for ocado.com orders are also set to increase this year.
