Project Spark: ANC's electrifying journey towards sustainability leadership

When it comes to sustainability in logistics, the last mile is often the most challenging. But it's potentially the most impactful if you can find the right green solutions.

It’s that final stretch from distribution hub to the customer’s doorstep that typically relies on carbon-heavy vehicles, clogging up streets and contributing to urban pollution.

That’s why ANC have initiated Project Spark: a fleet electrification initiative designed to revolutionise last-mile delivery in Australia.

By swapping diesel-powered trucks for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), ANC is not just cutting emissions but also leading the charge in clean, efficient, and sustainable delivery solutions.

Project Spark is about more than just going green - it's about reimagining the future of logistics while empowering communities, improving air quality, and setting a new standard for sustainable business practices.

Australia’s transportation industry accounts for 21% of the country’s total greenhouse gas emissions. As a logistics company, we knew we had to take responsibility and lead by example. Reducing our emissions through the adoption of BEVs is one of the most effective ways to minimise our environmental footprint.

ANC has committed to transitioning 150 vehicles to BEVs, with a bold vision to electrify 30% of our fleet by 2028. But this isn’t just about the physical fleet - it’s a complete transformation of how we operate, from the ground up.

The switch to BEVs brings a significant reduction in carbon emissions and contributes to cleaner air in urban areas. Since launching Project Spark, we’ve already abated over 232,000 kilograms of carbon, with much more to come. That’s a breath of fresh air for everyone!

One of the biggest challenges we face in the sustainability space is the perception that going green comes at a premium. Traditionally, businesses and consumers have had to choose between sustainability and affordability. But with Project Spark, we’re proving that it’s not necessary to sacrifice one for the other.

By closing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) gap between ICE vehicles and BEVs, we’ve made zero-emission delivery not only viable but preferable. With lower operational costs and government funding support through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), our BEVs are cost-effective, offering delivery professionals, clients and consumers a sustainable choice without the cost premium.

The shift to electric doesn’t just cut emissions and reduce costs; it cuts noise pollution too. No more diesel trucks rumbling through neighbourhoods, waking people up or polluting the air they breathe. Healthier, more sustainable communities are the future, and we’re proud to be a part of that change.

Environmental stewardship, customer-focused innovation, and improving community well-being are at the heart of ANC’s vision for the future. That’s why Project Spark is more than just a fleet upgrade; it’s a step toward revolutionising last mile logistics for all of Australia.

By transitioning from traditional internal combustion engines (ICEs) to Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), we’re boosting energy efficiency in our fleet. Plus, as Australia continues to increase its renewable energy generation footprint these vehicles can be charged with renewable electricity, bringing us closer to a cleaner energy future.

Project Spark is transforming logistics by modernising our fleet, developing charging infrastructure, and integrating cutting-edge vehicle management systems. It’s innovation in motion, with a focus on efficiency and sustainability.

We’re not just electrifying trucks; we’re electrifying communities by improving air quality and reducing noise pollution. Cleaner air, quieter streets – what’s not to love?

Our target? To electrify 30% of ANC’s fleet by 2028, directly supporting Australia’s broader climate goals. It’s a powerful statement about the role logistics can play in the global fight against climate change.

Project Spark is not just about the environment; it’s also about people. By pioneering zero-emission logistics, we’re creating new jobs, upskilling drivers, and fostering economic growth – all while reducing our carbon footprint.

With Project Spark, we’re tackling some of the biggest challenges facing the logistics sector today.

But the benefits of Project Spark go beyond the environment. It’s also an economic game-changer. As part of our commitment to decent work and economic growth, we’re making sure that our transition to a sustainable fleet brings with it new job opportunities and economic benefits for all.

Our delivery professionals, many of whom come from marginalised backgrounds, are incentivised to own their BEVs through ANC. This innovative approach provides better financial returns for drivers while empowering them with a cost-effective and sustainable livelihood.

And as the demand for electric vehicles grows, so too does the need for skilled workers who can operate and maintain them. Project Spark is driving upskilling opportunities across the logistics sector, creating more high-value jobs and contributing to the economy’s green transition.

The journey to sustainability is ongoing, and Project Spark is just the beginning. We’re currently fulfilling 8% of all deliveries using BEVs, and in the next nine months, we’re set to exceed 12%. That’s a significant leap in a short amount of time, and we have no intention of slowing down.

Our long-term goal is to electrify 30% of our fleet by 2028. Along the way, we’ll continue to expand our charging infrastructure, optimise delivery routes, and engage with the community to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable logistics.

It’s not just about vehicles – it’s about leadership and creating a lasting impact. To drive our sustainability goals, we’ve appointed a Chief Growth and Sustainability Officer, a Zero Emissions Delivery Manager, and a Program Management Office. These roles ensure that sustainability is woven into every facet of our business, from strategic planning to daily operations.

Our partnerships with leading suppliers like LDV and JAC have been instrumental in securing the high-performance BEVs that power Project Spark. Together, we’re creating a logistics ecosystem that’s cleaner, greener, and more efficient.

And as we move into 2025, ANC is planning to supercharge its sustainability efforts through Project Spark with a range of strategic initiatives. Here’s what we’ve got coming up:

We’ll continue to empower drivers with incentive programs that make BEV ownership more attractive, along with education and training to ensure they’re equipped for the electric future. But building momentum is all about inspirational storytelling. Success breeds success, and our team of early BEV adopters are inspiring other delivery professionals to make the change from diesel to electric.

Deepening collaborations with stakeholders like ARENA, EV manufacturers, and retail giants will help us tackle barriers to EV adoption and scale our sustainability goals. Clients will also play a crucial role in adopting more green delivery practices, and we'll continue to work with them on helping to reduce their Scope 3 emissions.

We’re enhancing our routing and scheduling systems to ensure BEVs are prioritised and operations run smoothly. Technology integration will improve fleet visibility and compliance, further demonstrating that sustainable delivery can be cost-effective.

We’ll roll out comprehensive reporting mechanisms to provide stakeholders with insights into our progress, fostering transparency and accountability across the board.

With key roles like a Chief Growth and Sustainability Officer and a ZED Manager in place, we’re ensuring our initiatives are strategically aligned. We’ll also showcase our progress at an industry leadership event in early 2025, demonstrating how we’re closing the cost gap on EVs and leading the way in zero-emissions logistics.

Project Spark isn’t just about reducing emissions or cutting costs – it’s about creating a better future for the communities we serve, the people we employ, and the planet we all share.

By electrifying our fleet, investing in innovation, and leading the charge toward sustainable logistics, ANC is proving that businesses can be both profitable and planet-friendly.

So, next time you see one of our electric trucks on the road, give our Delivery Professional a wave. After all, it’s a small spark leading the way to a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable tomorrow!