In an increasingly climate-conscious world, Purolator — one of Canada’s largest courier and logistics companies — is making a bold push to transform its fleet. A key part of this effort: hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) and fully electric trucks. But what exactly drives this move, and why are hybrid-electric trucks such a critical part of Purolator’s strategy?

1. Reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions

Purolator has set a science-based goal to reduce its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 42% by 2030, on its way to a net-zero emissions future. PR Newswire+2Purolator+2

• HEVs help cut emissions compared to traditional diesel or gasoline delivery vehicles because the electric component reduces reliance on fossil fuel, especially in stop-and-go city driving.

• According to its service guide, Purolator’s hybrid electric trucks save 40–50% in fuel compared to conventional diesel trucks. Purolator

• Over time, this reduction in fuel consumption translates to significant emissions savings: Purolator has reported preventing over 6,000 tonnes of GHG emissions thanks to its HEV fleet. Purolator

2. Lower Fuel Costs & Improved Efficiency

• Hybrid vehicles combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor. This dual system means that energy typically lost during braking can be recovered (regenerative braking) and reused, improving efficiency.

• For delivery vehicles that frequently stop and start — especially in urban areas — HEVs are more fuel-efficient than pure ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles. Early tests at Purolator showed large fuel savings when compared to conventional delivery vans. CCJ Digital+1

• According to past performance data, after hundreds of thousands of kilometers, Purolator’s HEV fleet saved tens of thousands of liters of fuel. CCJ Digital

3. Lower Maintenance Costs

Electric motors generally require less maintenance than conventional engines. Because hybrid trucks use electric drivetrains for portions of their operation, they tend to experience lower wear and tear on their mechanical components, potentially reducing long-term maintenance costs. This is especially beneficial for a high-utilization fleet like Purolator’s.

4. Sustainability as a Strategic Business Priority

• Purolator has made environmental sustainability a core part of its business strategy. Purolator+1

• The company is investing $1 billion (over several years) to electrify its network — not just with hybrid vehicles, but also with more than 3,500 fully electric last-mile delivery vehicles. PR Newswire

• By transitioning to greener vehicles, Purolator is positioning itself as a responsible, future-oriented logistics provider — an increasingly important factor for customers, regulators, and investors alike.

5. Urban Delivery Optimization

• Many of Purolator’s deliveries happen in dense city environments. In such settings, hybrid-electric or all-electric vehicles are more efficient, quieter, and produce fewer local pollutants.

• The company is not just deploying hybrid trucks: it’s also using electric cargo bikes, low-speed vehicles, and all-electric vans for last-mile deliveries. Purolator+1

• These smaller, electric vehicles are particularly well-suited for tight, urban routes where conventional trucks face parking, noise, and emissions challenges.

6. Proven Early Adoption & Innovation Culture

• Purolator’s journey with HEVs dates back: it introduced hybrid-electric vehicles into its fleet as early as 2005. Newswire+1

• It was among the first couriers in Canada to experiment with low- or zero-emission technologies. For example, in 2007 it introduced a prototype all-electric delivery van (the “Quicksider”) with a custom electric drivetrain. Truck News+1

• This early adoption reflects a long-term commitment, not just a green PR move: Purolator has been testing, scaling, and investing for years.

7. Milestones & Real Impact

• Purolator has crossed significant milestones: it has delivered more than two million packages using all-electric vehicles in its fleet. Purolator

• Its fully electric vehicles (such as Ford E-Transit™, Motiv EPIC4 vans, and BrightDrop Zevo 600) are being rolled out in multiple terminals. PR Newswire

• Motiv, the supplier of some of these EVs, recently celebrated Purolator’s electric trucks reaching 1 million kilometers driven — a strong proof point of their operational viability. GlobeNewswire

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Conclusion

Purolator’s use of hybrid-electric vehicles isn’t just a symbolic gesture — it’s a strategic, data-driven decision rooted in sustainability, cost-efficiency, and operational maturity. By gradually electrifying its fleet (starting with hybrids and moving toward fully electric trucks), the company is reducing emissions, lowering costs, and future-proofing its delivery network. It’s a win for the business, the environment, and the communities Purolator serves.