A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) and Unilever have launched their first electric van in Saudi Arabia, advancing logistics decarbonisation and supporting Saudi Vision 2030 goals.
The launch represents the start of a wider transformation, with both companies planning to scale electric mobility across Saudi operations and explore further innovations, including solar-powered warehousing and intermodal transport solutions.
The new electric van will serve BinDawood Group, one of Unilever’s major retail partners, operating within a 50-kilometre radius and covering up to 3,500 kilometres per month.
The deployment follows Unilever and Maersk’s consolidation of warehouses into a single fulfilment centre at Maersk’s Logistics Park in Jeddah, which has already achieved a 5 per cent reduction in emissions.
The park’s 64,000-square-metre rooftop solar plant and advanced cooling system, which uses natural refrigerant (ammonia) and seawater instead of potable water, contribute to these sustainability gains.
Ahmed Kadous, Head of Customer Operations, Unilever Middle East, Turkey, Pakistan and Bangladesh, said: “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 per cent 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.”
The initiative highlights the strength of the Maersk–Unilever partnership, with both companies collaborating on infrastructure readiness, operational planning, and stakeholder engagement to ensure successful implementation.
Ahmed El Esseily, Managing Director, Maersk Saudi Arabia, stated: “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.”
Maersk currently offers low-emission trucking solutions in more than 14 countries, including China, India, the USA, Brazil, Chile, Peru, and several European nations.
The company aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2040 across its global supply chain through new technologies, alternative energy solutions, and strategic partnerships.
Unilever, targeting net-zero emissions across its value chain by 2039, is implementing measures to cut logistics-related GHG emissions by up to 50 per cent by 2030.
Recently, Maersk reported solid financial results for the third quarter of 2025, supported by operational efficiencies and strict cost control across all business segments.
