Scope 3 Emissions: Why Amazon is Focussed on EVs
EVs offer enhanced fuel efficiency, reduced operational costs and lower emissions according to the US Department of Energy.
Amazon is leveraging these advantages to promote EV adoption and integrate advanced technologies across its logistics operations and supply chain.
Amazon's electric fleet now exceeds 30,000 vehicles, facilitating the delivery of 1.5 billion packages around the globe.
Integration of EVs into Amazon's Operations
Amazon says it delivers packages to customers everyday, making the electrification of vehicles a decarbonisation priority.
In 2019 Amazon partnered with EV brand Rivian and now uses tens of thousands of EVs regularly.
The company achieved its target of deploying 10,000 EVs in India ahead of schedule in 2024.
To optimise its electric fleet's performance, Amazon adapts its transportation methods by employing alternative fuel vehicles when EVs are not optimal.
This approach is part of a broader strategy that includes the installation of 11,770 EV chargers at 50 delivery stations, establishing the largest private charging network in the US.
The fleet also incorporates electric yard holsters for moving trailers at fulfillment centers.
R.J. Scaringe, CEO of Rivian, says: "We are focused on driving efficiency into every aspect of the vehicle design, everything from cabin heating to driver ergonomics to drivetrain design has been optimised for time and energy.
"And then the echo effect of this, of causing other logistics players in this space to also look at how they drive up efficiency within their fleet, will have a very large impact."
Dave Clark, Amazon's Senior Vice President of Worldwide Operations, says: "We created The Climate Pledge and are investing in 100,000 Rivian electric delivery vans to demonstrate that there is a large and growing market for green technologies.
"It's important that large companies like Amazon stimulate investment in the development of low-carbon products and services that will be required to help companies of all sizes decarbonise their operations and support a thriving, low-carbon economy."
Amazon's EV targets
Amazon has set a goal to deploy at least 10,000 electric delivery vans by 2030.
To reach this aim, at the beginning of 2025 it announced the largest order of zero-tailpipe emissions heavy goods vehicles.
This is alongside 200 new Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 trucks which are set to join its European transportation network.
These vehicles are expected to transport up to 338 million packages a year when fully operational.
Amazon currently has a fleet of EVās called middle miles that move shipments between the Amazon facilities.
These new vehicles are intended to join the fleet throughout the next two years.
The challenges in expanding EV use
Scaling up the global use of EVs presents challenges for Amazon.
The variety in operational logistics across different regions necessitates diverse vehicle types and suppliers.
Amazon says it needs vehicles and chargers that meet its operational needs, costs, technical needs and sustainability requirements.
Some of the main challenges are:
- Limited land availability
- Energy dependence
- Trade barriers
- Limited financing
- Power availability at competitive rates
- Unfavourable police environments
However, Amazon says that it is working to remove these barriers through engaging with private and government partners.
Andy Jassy, CEO of Amazon, says: “Our transportation network is one of the most challenging areas of our business to decarbonise and to achieve net-zero carbon will require a substantial and sustained investment.”