TRACEABILITY were significantly more expensive. However, by challenging assumptions and reimagining operational models, they found path to cost parity:

1. Negotiating lower charging costs by using private infrastructure

2. Adjusting for actual product weight( personal care products are volume-limited)

3. Double-shifting vehicles to increase asset utilisation

4. Sharing financial risks with suppliers through monthly fee structures“ Cost parity is already achievable for this archetype,” James notes,“ but it might require doing things differently.”

The pilot route connects Kimberly- Clark’ s manufacturing plant in Jaromer, with a distribution centre in Dobřenice, which are around 36 kilometres apart. The route handles around 1,500 deliveries annually – approximately 15 per day.

Key implementation strategies included:

• Installing a 120kW charger with future expansion in mind

• Designing charging infrastructure close to site entry and loading areas

• Adapting operational procedures to maximise vehicle utilisation

Reducing carbon emissions by

in Scope 1 and 2 by 2030

Scaling and future outlook Kimberly-Clark isn’ t stopping at a single pilot. The company is already evaluating expansion across multiple European routes, including connections between France and Germany and various UK locations.

Looking towards 2030, the ultimate goal is straightforward:“ The default option should be battery electric vehicles rather than diesel.”

For procurement professionals, Kimberly-Clark’ s journey offers several crucial lessons: renewable energy is non-negotiable for meaningful carbon reduction; cost parity requires creative operational thinking; asset utilisation is key to economic viability; and pilot projects must be designed with scalability in mind.

By approaching electric vehicle adoption with rigorous analysis, financial pragmatism and a commitment to sustainability, organisations can transform logistics from a cost centre to a strategic differentiator.

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