Maersk and Unilever roll out first electric van in Saudi Arabia

A.P. Moller – Maersk and Unilever have launched their first electric delivery van in Saudi Arabia, marking a major step toward zero-emission logistics in the Kingdom. The initiative supports Saudi Vision 2030, which targets a 278 million-ton annual carbon reduction and a 50% renewable energy share.

The electric van will operate in Jeddah, serving BinDawood Group, one of Unilever’s key retail partners. It will cover up to 3,500 km per month within a 50 km radius. This deployment follows the companies’ successful warehouse consolidation at Maersk’s Logistics Park in Jeddah, which has already achieved a 5% emissions cut thanks to solar-powered infrastructure and an eco-efficient cooling system using ammonia and seawater.

“This is the first van deployment in our Saudi fleet, and it represents our commitment to reducing logistics-related emissions wherever feasible. 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,” said Ahmed Kadous, Head of Customer Operations, Unilever Middle East, Turkey, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The collaboration also highlights Maersk and Unilever’s shared commitment to sustainable innovation. Both companies are planning to expand electric mobility across Saudi operations and explore future solutions, including solar-powered warehousing and intermodal transport integration.

“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,” said Ahmed El Esseily, Managing Director at Maersk Saudi Arabia.