Popcorn Deliveries Go Green with New Electric Vehicle

Imagine getting your favorite Klondike Kettle Corn delivered right to your door without leaving a carbon footprint. Sounds amazing, right? That's exactly what we've been doing in Whitehorse since the fall of 2022. We've swapped our traditional delivery truck for an electric vehicle (EV), making our popcorn deliveries not only delicious but environmentally friendly.

The Switch to Electric Vehicles

In fall 2022, Klondike Kettle Corn made a bold move towards sustainability by joining a pilot project with the Yukon Energy Solutions Centre. The initiative encourages midsize commercial vehicles to transition to fully electric models. Through this project, we could track our mileage and evaluate our new EV's performance, particularly during the harsh Yukon winters.

My decision to replace my delivery truck, which was becoming too small, coincided perfectly with this opportunity. While on a camping trip, friends informed me about an electric Ford Transit available in Whitehorse. I visited the dealership the following Monday and purchased the vehicle that same week. The rebate application was straightforward, and the financial support proved invaluable.

Delivery Days and Routes

Our EV makes popcorn deliveries every Tuesday and Friday, covering grocery stores and independent retailers across Whitehorse. Since switching to an electric vehicle, we’ve managed to streamline our routes and ensure timely deliveries while minimizing our carbon footprint.

Winter Challenges and Solutions

One of the most frequently asked questions we get is about the performance of our EV in extremely cold weather. In the Yukon, temperatures can plummet to 40 below zero, making it crucial for vehicles to start smoothly and reliably.

No Trouble Starting

Surprisingly, our EV starts without a hitch in the cold. However, it’s vital to keep the vehicle plugged in when it’s not out on deliveries. Unlike fuel vehicles, you can’t leave an EV running at each stop. Doing so would drain the battery quickly, so we turn it off at every stop to conserve energy.

Battery Management in Cold Weather

Battery life is a major concern in winter. On the coldest days, the range does decrease, and it’s essential to keep a close eye on the battery level. Heating the inside of the vehicle also draws power from the battery, so we installed a partition behind the seats to create a smaller space to heat, thus conserving battery life.

Mileage Insights

On average, our van has a range of about 205 km, slightly above the advertised 203 km. However, mileage can vary significantly based on the weather. In December 2022, our lowest range was 159 km, while in June 2023, it soared to 309 km. This fluctuation underscores the importance of battery management in different seasons.

The Financial Aspect of Going Electric

The transition to an EV was financially feasible, thanks to an 80% rebate from the Energy Solutions Centre. Although the vehicle had to be initially be purchased outright to apply for the rebate, this substantial financial support made the switch much easier.

Commitment to Sustainability

Klondike Kettle Corn is committed to making better decisions for the environment. Switching to an EV is a significant step towards our goal of becoming a B Corp certified business, demonstrating our dedication to sustainability.

The Benefits of Electric Vehicle Deliveries

Environmental Impact

Switching to an EV has dramatically reduced our carbon emissions. Each delivery we make is a step towards a greener planet, aligning with our values and those of our environmentally conscious customers.

Cost Savings

Over time, the cost savings from reduced fuel expenses and lower maintenance costs add up. EVs have fewer moving parts than traditional vehicles, resulting in fewer breakdowns and repairs.

Enhanced Public Image

Adopting an EV for deliveries has positively impacted our brand image. Customers appreciate our commitment to sustainability, which strengthens our relationship with the community.

Practical Tips for Using EVs in Cold Weather

If you’re considering making the switch to an EV, here are some practical tips for managing your vehicle in cold weather:

• Keep it Plugged In: Always keep your EV plugged in when not in use to preserve battery life.
• Turn Off the Vehicle at Stops: Unlike fuel vehicles, leaving an EV running at stops will quickly drain the battery.
• Monitor Battery Levels: Keep a close eye on your battery level, especially on colder days. And remember, it doesn't work like a gas tank! Colder weather will drain the battery faster than on a hot summer day.
• Optimize Heating: Use partitions to reduce the space you need to heat, conserving battery power.

Building a Sustainable Future

By adopting an electric vehicle for our popcorn deliveries, Klondike Kettle Corn is taking meaningful steps towards sustainability. Our experience demonstrates that it’s possible to operate efficiently even in the harshest weather conditions, all while reducing our environmental impact.

If you’re an environmentally conscious snacker, consider supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability. And if you’re curious about electric vehicles, our experience shows they can perform admirably, even in the cold Yukon winters.

Join Us on Our Green Journey

We invite you to join us in our commitment to sustainability. Whether it’s by choosing eco-friendly products, supporting businesses that prioritize the environment, or considering an EV for your own needs, every step counts.

For those interested in learning more about our green initiatives or the performance of our electric vehicle, feel free to reach out. Together, we can create a greener, more sustainable future.

Thank you for being part of the Klondike Kettle Corn community. Here’s to many more delicious and eco-friendly deliveries!