A BRADFORD builders' merchant is driving down its carbon footprint with a 100 per cent electric truck.

Joseph Parr (Alco) Ltd, based on Manchester Road, has taken delivery of what is believed to be the first Volvo FM Electric working for a builders' merchant in the UK.

The new FM Electric carries out deliveries for the company, which supplies construction materials to customers across the district and the wider area.



It has replaced a diesel model from a rival manufacturer in the firm’s five-strong HGV delivery fleet.

The environmentally-friendly vehicle was part funded by a grant from Bradford Council, which will monitor the truck's impact closely - via data from Volvo Connect, the manufacturer's fleet management system - as it tries to cut carbon emissions in the city's Clean Air Zone and wider areas.

Michael Beaumont, joint managing director at Joseph Parr (Alco), said: "Regulations across the industry are changing and we want to ensure we are ahead of the curve in terms of new green technologies.


"When the decision was made to go down the electric route, Volvo Trucks was the obvious choice.

"We had one Volvo on the fleet already and they are clearly leading the way when it comes to electric."

He added: "The electric truck has been making deliveries for the last few weeks and is performing as planned - I'm really happy with how it's going.

"Our customers can choose the truck for their particular delivery if they so wish.

"I believe that this truck demonstrates our commitment to reducing emissions.

"It also sets us apart from our competitors."

A newly-installed 43kW AC charger at the company's depot allows the truck to charge overnight before heading out to complete its deliveries the next day.

As well as working in Bradford, the firm also uses the FM Electric for operations in Leeds, Halifax, Huddersfield, Wakefield and Manchester.

A spokesperson from Volvo said the electric truck was providing the company with "instant environmental benefits". 

Joseph Parr (Alco) is part of the Joseph Parr Group.

Founded in 1883, the firm has grown to become one of the largest independent builders' merchants in the country.

Mr Beaumont said the business employs "really knowledgeable, well-trained staff".

"We've got the staff to help everyone and we like to make everyone feel welcome here," he added.

For more information about Joseph Parr (Alco), visit www.josephparrbradford.co.uk