Maersk and Unilever launch first electric van towards decarbonising logistics in Saudi Arabia

In a major step toward zero-emission logistics, A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) and Unilever are collaborating to introduce their first electric van in Saudi Arabia. This landmark initiative supports Saudi Vision 2030, which targets a reduction of 278 million tonnes of carbon emissions each year and an increase in renewable energy use to 50%.

The launch marks the start of a wider transformation. Both companies plan to expand electric mobility across their Saudi operations and are exploring further sustainable innovations, including solar-powered warehouses and integrated intermodal transport solutions.

Driving Decarbonisation in Jeddah

This is the first van deployment in our Saudi fleet, and it represents our commitment to reducing logistics-related emissions wherever feasible. This is another building block of our emission reduction plans in partnership with Maersk. The electric van, combined with solar energy charging infrastructure, means we practically reduce emissions by 100% compared to a conventional truck. We’re proud to introduce this innovation in Saudi Arabia, supporting Saudi Vision 2030 and joining global efforts. By improving efficiency and cutting emissions, we strengthen sustainability while delivering greater value to our customers.

- Ahmed, Kadous, Head of Customer Operations, Unilever Middle East, Turkey, Pakistan and Bangladesh

Partnership for Sustainable Value

The initiative showcases the strength of the Maersk-Unilever partnership, with both companies working collaboratively on infrastructure readiness, operational planning, and stakeholder engagement to ensure successful implementation.

As electric vehicle technology advances and charging infrastructure expands across Saudi Arabia, we're seeing more opportunities to deploy emission-free trucks in place of diesel units. We're proud to partner with forward-thinking customers like Unilever, who are committed to decarbonising logistics solutions that deliver value throughout their supply chain.

Ahmed El Esseily, Managing Director at Maersk Saudi Arabia

Maersk currently offers low-emission trucking solutions in more than 14 countries globally, including China, India, the USA, Brazil, Chile, Peru, and several European countries. The company is committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2040 across the entire supply chain through new technologies, alternative energy solutions, and close partnerships with customers and vendors. As part of Unilever’s commitment to achieving net zero across the value chain by 2039, the company is implementing measures designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from their logistics network by up to 50% by 2030. A key pillar of this strategy is the transition to electric vehicles, reinforcing Maersk and Unilever’s dedication to building a more sustainable future.