How Riverford Organic Farmers Transformed Their EV Fleet with LEGEND Fleet Solutions

Committed to sustainability and corporate accountability, Riverford decided to transition their delivery fleet to all-electric vehicles (EVs). While this decision promised significant ROI and reinforced their environmental responsibility, it also came with its own set of challenges.

The Unique Challenges

Reduced Payload: The EVs had limited carrying capacity, threatening the efficiency of their deliveries. This was a critical issue for a company that prides itself on timely and efficient service.

No Drilling Allowed: The placement of the EV battery under the vehicle floor prohibited traditional flooring solutions that required drilling. This limitation complicated the installation of durable, protective floors needed for daily operations.

Need for Sustainable Materials: As an organic food supplier, Riverford wanted a sustainable lining solution, moving away from traditional plywood to materials that aligned with their environmental values.

Hygiene Concerns: An even more pressing concern emerged: the hygiene of their cargo space. Traditional plywood floors couldn't be effectively wiped down, risking produce contamination. For a company delivering fresh produce, this was an unacceptable risk.

The Tailored Solution

To tackle these challenges, Riverford partnered with LEGEND, a Canadian manufacturer renowned for safe, durable, and sustainable cargo van interior linings, floors, and accessories. After a thorough consultation, LEGEND developed a custom prototype that addressed all of Riverford’s needs.Here’s what LEGEND’s solution looked like:

Hygienic Cargo Space: LEGEND's easy-to-clean recycled composite lining is both water and chemical resistant, ensuring a 100% hygienic environment for fresh produce. This solution effectively mitigated the risk of contamination and maintained the integrity of Riverford's organic products.

Weight Savings: The lightweight materials used by LEGEND resulted in over 75 kg of weight savings per vehicle. This weight reduction not only increased the delivery capacity but also added £1.25 million in annual revenue (2.15 million CAD). The additional payload capacity allowed Riverford to maximize each delivery, enhancing overall efficiency.

Range Efficiency: The weight reduction improved the range efficiency of the EVs, allowing them to travel farther on a single charge. This improvement meant the fleet could cover more ground without needing frequent recharges, saving time and operational costs.

No-Drill Flooring: LEGEND’s innovative "no-drill" flooring system prevented any damage to the EV battery packs, ensuring the integrity and safety of the vehicles. This solution was crucial in maintaining the warranty and functionality of the electric vehicles while providing a durable and reliable flooring option.

Sustainable Materials: Made from up to 75% recycled materials, LEGEND's products are not only eco-friendly but also recyclable at the end of their life cycle. This feature significantly contributed to Riverford’s sustainability goals, aligning with their commitment to environmental responsibility. The use of sustainable materials reinforced Riverford's brand image as a green and responsible company.

The Optimal Result

With LEGEND, Riverford transformed their EV fleet into a sustainable, efficient, and hygienic powerhouse. The partnership between Riverford and LEGEND showcases how a well-executed upfit can deliver remarkable results, both operationally and financially.

By addressing the challenges head-on, LEGEND provided Riverford with a tailored solution that enhanced their delivery operations. The custom upfit not only solved the immediate issues but also positioned Riverford for long-term success in their sustainability journey.

Riverford and their crews are truly Legends of the Road. Their commitment to sustainability, combined with LEGEND's innovative solutions, has set a new standard for eco-friendly fleet management.

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