Toll Group has taken another step toward decarbonising Australia’s freight sector with the deployment of a Volvo FE Electric 4×2 rigid truck to support Origin Energy’s LPG cylinder delivery operations.
The initiative marks a milestone in the shift toward cleaner logistics solutions for heavy transport.
The new truck is purpose-built for urban delivery and tailored to the unique requirements of LPG distribution.
It offers a daily range of 200 to 275 kilometres per duty cycle and is expected to cut 39 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year compared to traditional diesel-powered vehicles.
The introduction of the vehicle highlights how electric mobility can meet demanding commercial needs while reducing both carbon emissions and noise pollution.
“This project shows that electric heavy vehicles are not just a concept, they’re a practical solution for complex supply chains,” said Michael Rugendyke, President Resources & Industrials at Toll.
“Our partnership with Origin Energy highlights how collaboration can accelerate the transition to cleaner logistics.”
The Volvo FE Electric forms part of Toll’s broader $67 million investment in battery-electric heavy vehicles and charging infrastructure, co-funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) through its Driving the Nation program.
The initiative will see 28 electric vehicles integrated into Toll’s nationwide fleet, laying the groundwork for large-scale decarbonisation in Australia’s transport and logistics sectors.
The Brisbane-based deployment demonstrates the feasibility of using electric vehicles in high-frequency delivery routes, particularly for goods such as LPG that require specialised handling.
Designed in collaboration with vehicle engineers and logistics experts, the truck will operate between Origin’s metropolitan distribution sites, providing an important real-world test of performance, charging efficiency, and cost-effectiveness under local operating conditions.
General Manager of Origin LPG Amber Fennell said: “Our partnership with Toll has enabled us to develop this electric vehicle specifically designed for LPG cylinder delivery.
“This project has been in development for over a year as part of our 10-year strategic partnership. Based on the success of this trial, we are excited about the potential for electric vehicles to transform our LPG operations in the future.”
“As a leading Australian energy company, we recognise our role in the transition to a low-emissions future and are committed to sustainable choices that benefit both customers and the environment.”
Both Toll and Origin Energy view the initiative as a model for how industry collaboration can advance sustainability goals.
The companies expect the trial to yield valuable insights into battery range optimisation, recharging cycles, and real-world logistics performance.
The findings will inform their future strategy for electrification across wider delivery networks.