Sustainability in pharmaceutical logistics is a continuous journey driven by collaboration and innovation. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and success relies on developing tailored strategies that balance environmental goals with operational requirements. Through optimization, in-depth analysis, and discussions, co-created supply chain solutions address the unique needs of all stakeholders.

A recent collaboration between a German pharmaceutical company and Girteka focused on designing a domestic roundtrip with the goal of minimizing environmental impact. The process involved detailed analysis, route optimization, simulations, and practical testing of electric vehicles (EVs).

“The partnership allowed for a comprehensive exploration of how Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) could be integrated into pharmaceutical logistics,” says Andrius Žukauskas, Head of E-mobility at Girteka.

Analysis, optmisation and validation

The project tested a full truckload (FTL) BEV on a 300-kilometer domestic roundtrip, aiming to evaluate carbon emissions reductions compared to traditional diesel trucks. As first stage the analysis and simulation process were conducted. The simulation covered the assessment of the BEV’s impact of reduction of CO₂ emissions compare to a standard diesel truck. The results were promising, showing a 25% reduction in emissions even when using electricity from the local grid:

• CO₂ emissions using diesel truck: 408.3 kg per workday

• CO₂ emissions using BEV (local grid): 300.7 kg per workday

• CO₂ emissions using BEV (renewable energy): 0 kg per workday

Overcoming Challenges with Innovation

During the planning phase of introducing electric vehicles into operations, a series of logistical challenges emerged, particularly concerning on-site charging capabilities.

“The client’s facilities had limited grid capacity, making direct charging at both the departure and destination points unfeasible. Together with the customer, we analyzed several options, including public charging solutions near the depot, which would have required decoupling trailers for charging. However, leveraging our expertise and detailed analysis, we developed an optimized solution that avoided such disruptions, maintained on-time delivery schedules, and improved overall efficiency,” explains Andrius Žukauskas.

This initial challenge highlighted the importance of close cooperation and partnership with key stakeholders. Working hand-in-hand with one of the largest vehicle manufacturers, Mercedes-Benz, Girteka co-created a tailored solution to address the specific requirements of this route. The Mercedes-Benz eActros 600, equipped with a 621 kWh battery, was chosen as the ideal vehicle to test the theoretical plan in practice.

In the testing phase, the collaboration brought significant advancements. The chosen battery-electric vehicle (BEV) enabled optimized route planning, eliminating the need for mid-journey charging and decoupling. By using solar-powered charging infrastructure, the outcome was even better, reducing emission to zero.

Over five days, the Mercedes-Benz BEV underwent rigorous testing along the 300-kilometer route. Key outcomes from this testing phase included:

• Reduced Stops: With only a single charging location needed mid-route, the team minimized the need for decoupling at the nearby warehouse charging spot.

• Enhanced Efficiency: The setup saved significant time by avoiding extra stops, improving both driving and loading efficiency.

• Energy Performance: The truck achieved a range of up to 550 kilometers on a single charge, outperforming initial expectations with lower-than-anticipated energy consumption.

• Environmental Impact: Using solar-powered public chargers enabled a consistent 100% CO₂ reduction, demonstrating the viability of BEVs in pharmaceutical logistics under stringent environmental goals.

Driving the Future of Sustainable Logistics Together

This collaboration highlights the critical role of co-creation and innovation in developing sustainable pharmaceutical logistics solutions that address both environmental and operational challenges. By uniting the expertise of all stakeholders – including manufacturers, carriers, clients, and infrastructure providers – it is possible to design tailored solutions that meet the stringent requirements of the pharmaceutical industry while advancing sustainability goals.

Logistics solutions must deliver not only on sustainability but also on the core principles of the industry: ensuring on-time delivery and maintaining perfect conditions for transported goods. Girteka’s role as a carrier was instrumental in facilitating discussions and aligning operational needs with environmental objectives.

In addition to reducing emissions, such solutions must also make economic sense for all parties involved. The results of this collaboration showed that integrating BEVs into logistics networks can deliver environmental benefits without compromising cost-efficiency, reliability, or the quality of service. This testing project serves as a model for future partnerships, where economic viability, operational excellence, and environmental responsibility go hand in hand to redefine the future of logistics.

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