Knowles Logistics has electrified 95% of its forklift fleet after its latest investment in new electric Linde trucks.
The third-party logistics firm said 104 of its 111 materials handling vehicles are now fully electric, leaving just seven gas-powered forklifts in operation across its estate.
The milestone forms part of the company’s wider drive to cut emissions, improve energy efficiency and make its logistics operations more sustainable.
Knowles said the shift to electric materials handling equipment is now delivering annual carbon savings of 500 tonnes.
The latest phase of investment includes eight new Linde E16-20 electric forklifts, which are being used at the company’s Wimblington site.
The trucks are designed to improve operational performance while reducing reliance on traditional fuel-powered equipment.
Knowles said the new Linde vehicles combine safety features, operator comfort and digital connectivity to support productivity in busy warehouse environments.
Their 48-volt technology is designed to support continuous multi-shift operations, while compatibility with both lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries gives the company flexibility as it continues to modernise its fleet.
The trucks also include enhanced all-round visibility, intelligent speed reduction when cornering and advanced load handling assistance systems.
Ergonomic operator cabins have also been designed to reduce fatigue during long shifts.
Alex Knowles, chief executive of Knowles Logistics, said reaching 95% electrification was an important step in the company’s net zero plans.
He said: “Reaching 95 per cent electrification across our forklift fleet is a significant achievement and demonstrates the progress we are making towards achieving our net zero journey.”
Mr Knowles said every investment was considered carefully to ensure it delivered benefits for customers, the operation and the environment.
He added: “The addition of these latest Linde trucks moves us even closer to our ambition of operating a fully electric materials handling fleet wherever practical.”
He said sustainability remained central to the company’s long-term strategy.
Mr Knowles added: “Sustainability remains central to our long-term strategy, and we will continue to invest in technologies that reduce emissions, improve efficiency and support the future growth of the business.”
The investment sits within Knowles Logistics’ wider environmental agenda, which focuses on cutting emissions, improving energy efficiency and embedding more sustainable practices across its operations.
The company said it is also continuing to explore technologies including automation and artificial intelligence to support operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
With just seven gas-powered forklifts left in use, Knowles said it is now closer than ever to operating a fully electric materials handling fleet.
The company said the milestone reinforced its position as a forward-looking logistics operator working to build a more sustainable future for the industry.