Home Hardware is the latest Canadian fleet to add electric Class 8 trucks to its fleet.

The home improvement retailer added two Volvo VNR Electrics, the first zero-emission vehicles to be deployed in the fleet.

“We are proud to introduce our new battery-electric trucks to our privately-owned fleet,” said Kevin Macnab, president and chief executive officer of Home Hardware Stores. “Recognized by the Private Motor Truck Council as Safest Large Fleet, as well as Trucking HR Canada as a Top Fleet Employer and a Fleet of Distinction, Home Hardware Stores is committed to forward-thinking logistics that evolve our supply chain to best support our dealers so they can serve their communities.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Home Hardware Stores in their journey towards a sustainable future by integrating our Volvo VNR Electric trucks into their fleet. This collaboration marks a significant step in reducing emissions and enhancing urban delivery efficiency,” added Matthew Blackman, managing director for Canada, Volvo Trucks North America. “By adopting these zero-tailpipe emission vehicles, Home Hardware Stores Limited is setting a new standard in the home improvement industry.”

The VNR Electric 6×4 tractors are equipped with a six-battery pack configuration offering range of up to 275 miles (442 km). They’ll be used for last-mile deliveries from the company’s St. Jacobs, Ont., distribution center to stores within a 100-150 km radius.

Vision Truck Group’s Brampton, Ont., location supplied the trucks. It was the first Toronto area Volvo dealer to become certified to sell electric trucks.

AUX Energy, owned by Hydro One, was tapped to provide chargers at the St. Jacobs distribution center.