A ground-breaking initiative is reshaping the way local small-scale food producers transport their goods, with the introduction of South Australia’s first Electric (EV) refrigerated truck. 

Creating a more efficient, sustainable, and community-driven logistics model, the Cool Road Collective is a collaboration of Fleurieu producers and advocates that has been launched with support from Regional Development Australia (RDA) – Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island and Alexandrina Council.

The collective says transportation remains a significant challenge for small- to medium-sized producers in the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu region, often proving costly, time-consuming, and environmentally impactful. 

It has introduced the EV refrigerated truck to start addressing these challenges by offering an environmentally responsible solution for local food distribution. 

This trial, which marks the first of its kind in South Australia, is a key step towards making low-emission food transport a reality for the region.

In 2023 RDA and Alexandrina Council funded a feasibility study exploring a collaborative logistics model for regional food producers. 

Now in its next phase, the Cool Road Collective is actively trialling this model with five Fleurieu-based producers: Peninsula Providore, Gut Feeling, Choice Mushrooms, Smiling Samoyed Brewery, and Crikey Tucker. 

By sharing resources and infrastructure, the collective is making deliveries more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible. 

This approach fosters cooperation over competition, building resilience in the local food system.

Collaboration, efficiency, integrity, and resourcefulness are at the core of the collective’s efforts. The group recognises that the world is constantly evolving, and to thrive, they must adapt with agility and innovation.

After nearly four months of operation, the Cool Road Collective has already seen significant positive outcomes:

• Environmental Impact: 75 per cent reduction in collective greenhouse gas emissions and 75% reduction in distance travelled.
• Time Saving: 80 per cent reduction in time spent on deliveries, enabling producers to focus on growth and sustainability.
• Reduced Costs: Pooling resources and consolidating deliveries has lowered fuel and vehicle
• costs.
• Improved Business Opportunities: Producers can now say yes  to more deliveries, expanding their reach.

Kate from Smiling Samoyed Brewery has found the trial a positive experience.

“It has definitely reduced my stress on busy weeks, and I’ve been able to say yes to deliveries I might have otherwise had to turn down.”

Phil from Choice Mushrooms agrees. “This trial has freed up almost a whole day for me. The extra time has allowed me to chase new customers, which has been the biggest improvement.”

Looking beyond the pilot, the Cool Road Collective is exploring opportunities to secure a dedicated vehicle and the necessary technology to transition into a self-sustaining small-scale logistics operation.

The success of this electric truck trial paves the way for a more sustainable, low-emission food distribution model for the region, strengthening both local businesses and the community.