Woolworths are exploring ways to reduce their fleet transport emissions and have started a trial with two vehicles from local manufacturer ACE Electric Vehicles claiming to have manufactured the first electric ute in Australia.
The project got some attention before Christmas when Federal Government Ministers Ed Husic and Chris Bowen organised to test drive the ACE V1 Transformer TC Series named Lisa which has been purpose built as a trolley collection vehicle in the Woolworths fleet.
Minister Husic said on the day, “Loved this. Woolworths planning to convert their trolley collection vehicles nationwide to EV, using Australian made ACE utes which are now on trial at selected stores.
“Energy Minister Chris Bowen and I got to have a test drive today and I tell you what, it was so good to see Australian know how in action. Thanks for inviting us Gregory McGarvie, well done.
“We’re keen to see more of this happen – which is why we’re setting up the National Reconstruction Fund – because an Australian Government should bebacking Australian businesses and Australian ideas!”
ACE EV Group has setup a temporary facility in NSW to ensure delivery of 20 V1 Transformer TC Series 100% electric vehicles as part of the trial for Woolworths. They are planning for a permanent home when they start manufacturing the ACE Yewt later in 2023 which is a small ute offering two seats and a 500kg payload.
Customers and supporters can reserve a vehicle for as little as $199 to support the growth of this local manufacturer based in Hervey Bay QLD. As appreciation of the support, Greg McGarvie, Managing Director at ACE Electric Vehicles, will send you a signed and number coffee mug which may be worth as much as a share in Tesla one day.
About the ACE V1 Transformer
The all electric ACE V1 Transformer is so energy efficient that it will lower your running costs by up to 85%*, your fleet greenhouse emissions by over 70%** and your self-satisfaction at helping save the environment by 100%.
The V1 Transformer’s modular architecture offers interchangeable modules for long and short wheelbase, high and low roof, van and ute, and can change modules in just 15 minutes. One platform can carry whatever cargo module is required – van or ute, high or low roof – so it is constantly earning its keep, whatever each individual freight mission may be.
