Ingka Group Expands EV Charging and Fleet Transition
Ingka Group, the parent company of IKEA, is making significant strides in transitioning to EVs and expanding charging infrastructure. The initiative aligns with its ambitious climate goals and commitment to sustainable mobility.
The company has reached a milestone by installing EV charging stations at all IKEA stores where parking is available.
- Installing 1,000 new charging points at IKEA locations in Germany by 2028
- Adding more than 1,000 charging points in Norway and Sweden by the end of 2024
- Deploying more than 300 fast chargers capable of fully charging an EV in 15-45 minutes
Initially, the Ingka Group aimed for 100% zero-emission home deliveries by 2025. Due to industry challenges, it revised the target to more than 90% by 2028. As of September 2024:
- 41.1% of retail home deliveries with zero-emission vehicles
- IKEA products are delivered 100% emission-free across 20 cities
Overcoming EV transition challenges
Despite its progress, Ingka Group faces several industry-wide challenges, including the limited availability of electric freight vehicles, a lack of sufficient charging infrastructure and variability in local policies. These obstacles make it difficult to transition fully to sustainable logistics, necessitating innovative solutions and collaboration with industry partners to overcome them.
To address these issues, the company is:
- Partnering with truck manufacturers to advance EV technology
- Supporting delivery partners in increasing EV adoption
- Optimising routes to reduce emissions
- Advocating for policy changes to facilitate the transition
A broader sustainability commitment
The EV transition is a key element of Ingka Group's sustainability strategy, which includes:
- Aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030
- Targeting net-zero emissions by 2050
- Investing in autonomous electric trucks and urban mobility solutions
The shift towards sustainable mobility
With more than half of the global population living in urban areas, the need for sustainable transport is growing. Urbanisation is expected to reach 70% by 2050, increasing demand for eco-friendly logistics solutions.
Ingka Group acknowledges its role in driving positive change. By setting bold climate targets, the company demonstrates leadership in sustainable retail operations while influencing industry-wide progress.
Progress in zero-emission deliveries
Since setting a 2018 goal for 100% zero-emission home deliveries, Ingka Group has remained transparent about its progress. The updated goal — achieving more than 90% zero-emission deliveries by 2028 — reflects industry challenges but demonstrates its commitment.
Karen Pflug, Ingka Group's Chief Sustainability Officer, states: "We still believe that zero-emission deliveries are the future of retail. Through continued investment, innovation and collaboration, we remain strongly committed to ensuring our customers receive their products sustainably."
Ingka Group has achieved significant milestones:
- 41.1% of home deliveries in 2024 with zero-emission vehicles, compared to 24.6% the previous year
- Home deliveries account for 14.2% of the company's mobility emissions, reinforcing the need for continued investment
- More than 2,500 EVs operate across 300+ locations
Ingka Group continues to lead the transition to zero-emission deliveries. Compared to its FY16 baseline, it has reduced its climate footprint by 30.1%.
Simon Henzell-Thomas, Climate & Nature Manager at Ingka Group, adds: "Climate change is complex, but as a multinational business, we have a responsibility to be part of the solution. We invite policymakers, industry peers and customers to work with us to accelerate this transition."
Advocacy for industry-wide change
To further drive sustainable transport solutions, Ingka Group advocates for key policy changes, including:
- Phasing out internal combustion engine vehicles by 2035
- Expanding reliable and renewable-powered charging infrastructure
- Supporting research into sustainable biofuels and alternative zero-emission technologies
By championing these initiatives and maintaining its investments in sustainable mobility, Ingka Group is transforming its operations and setting a precedent for the broader industry.
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