HAVI Spain demonstrated its strong commitment to sustainability by dedicating two HVO vehicles from our Esparraguera center to exclusively support the McDonald’s Worldwide Convention. These vehicles helped to ensure smooth logistical operations throughout the event. Below, you can learn more about HVO vehicles and how exactly they’re helping to promote HAVI’s ongoing decarbonization journey.
What is HVO?
HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) is an advanced biofuel for vehicles, produced from waste materials such as used vegetable oils, animal fats, and agricultural and forestry residues. This sustainable formula ensures that no raw materials intended for food are used, thus reducing the demand for food resources. On November 10, 2022, HAVI Spain received its first batch of HVO at the Esparraguera center. Just five days later, the first refueling marked a significant milestone in our transition to more sustainable fuels.
Initially, HVO was used as fuel for seven diesel vehicles at the Esparraguera center, representing 54% of the fleet at that time. Today, the use of HVO has expanded to distribution centers in Madrid, Osuna, and Esparraguera, covering a total of 27 vehicles, which corresponds to 42% of HAVI’s current fleet. All our EURO 6 diesel vehicles can run on HVO, allowing the fleet to operate on a zero-carbon fuel. This transition significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions by more than 90% compared to traditional fossil fuels.
Advantages of HVO diesel vehicles
Diesel vehicles remain the most common due to their production capacity, availability of raw materials, and lower costs compared to electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and liquefied natural gas (LNG). This makes HVO diesel vehicles a viable and efficient option for the fleet. Current workshops are well-equipped to handle diesel vehicles, allowing for efficient management of overhauls and repairs.
For drivers, HVO vehicles are easy to use as they operate just like diesel vehicles, only with a different fuel. This familiarity eliminates the need for extensive retraining, unlike BEVs and PHEVs, which require additional training and support. Additionally, HVO tanks are conveniently located at HAVI hubs, simplifying refueling at the end of routes.
Looking ahead: sustainability and future plans
HVO is becoming a significant trend in the transportation and logistics sector due to its multiple environmental and operational benefits. As government regulations and consumer demands increasingly favor sustainable practices, the use of HVO and other biofuels is gaining popularity. This trend reflects a broader movement towards a greener and more sustainable economy.
Today, HAVI’s HVO trucks serve a wide range of customers, including McDonald’s, promoting sustainable development and leading the way towards a decarbonized economy. Our customers highly value these vehicles due to the reduction in noise pollution during deliveries and the significant decrease in CO2 emissions. This not only benefits the environment but also strengthens our relationships with customers who appreciate our commitment to sustainability and quality of life improvements in the areas we serve.
Looking ahead, we plan to acquire more HVO vehicles as well as electric and hybrid vehicles. This strategy aligns with our goal of reducing our carbon footprint by 53% by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. By embracing these advanced technologies, HAVI Spain exemplifies our proactive approach to sustainability, demonstrating our leadership in the industry and our commitment to a cleaner, greener future.
