Imagine a future where the rumble of diesel engines is replaced by the quiet hum of electric motors, even for heavy-duty trucks hauling goods across Europe. That future is closer than you think. MAN, a leading truck manufacturer, has just delivered two of its cutting-edge eTGX electric trucks to Koinè, a major Italian logistics company. But here's where it gets exciting: these trucks aren't just any electric vehicles; they're part of a bold plan to revolutionize how Sanpellegrino, the iconic beverage brand, moves its products.
Koinè, strategically located between Bergamo and Milan, isn't just dipping its toes into the electric waters—it's diving in headfirst. With nearly 1,000 vehicles already in operation, the company aims to electrify up to one-third of its massive fleet within the next three years. And this is the part most people miss: to power this ambitious transition, Koinè is investing in a massive solar power system at its new logistics center in Levate, capable of generating up to five megawatts of electricity. This isn't just about reducing emissions; it's about creating a sustainable ecosystem where electric trucks are powered by clean energy.
Paolo Toccafondi, Managing Director of Koinè, puts it plainly: “For us, sustainability is not just a goal—it’s a daily commitment. With MAN eTGX, we can guarantee our customers, like the Sanpellegrino Group, safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible transport.” But is this commitment enough to overcome the challenges of long-haul electric trucking? That’s a question worth debating.
The MAN eTGX, specifically designed for long-haul routes, has been making waves since its first delivery in October 2024. Koinè’s acquisition of these trucks marks a significant milestone, but it’s just the beginning. The company plans to add up to 50 more eTGX units to its fleet in the coming years. Michael Kobriger, Member of the Board for Production & Logistics at MAN, emphasizes, “Every MAN eTGX delivered is a step toward the future of transport. Our mission is to provide vehicles that combine cutting-edge technology with environmental responsibility, supporting our customers in their energy transition.”
The first two eTGX trucks will hit the road between Sanpellegrino’s production sites and logistics depots in Madone and Levate, covering approximately 250,000 kilometers annually. These routes are meticulously planned to align with the trucks’ charging times and ranges, ensuring seamless operations. Svante Palebo, Global Head of Supply Chain at Nestlé Waters (Sanpellegrino’s parent company), highlights the broader impact: “Electrifying transport is one of the key levers of our decarbonization strategy. Thanks to initiatives like this, we continue to make our supply chain more efficient, responsible, and ready for future challenges.”
But here’s a thought-provoking question: As more companies adopt electric trucks, will the infrastructure keep pace? Charging stations, grid capacity, and maintenance networks will need to evolve rapidly to support this transition. What do you think? Is the shift to electric trucking inevitable, or are there hurdles that could slow its progress? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more insights, visit MAN Truck & Bus and stay updated on the latest developments in sustainable logistics. This article was originally published by Florian Treiß for electrive’s German edition, bringing you the forefront of electric mobility innovations.
