Norbert Dentressangle is set to trial two hybrid vehicles within its French operation ahead of a planned UK trial later this year.
The 19-tonne Renault Premium Distribution trucks are being tested in Paris and Lyon.
Norbert will conduct trials in London later this year to compare performance with diesel models by running a similar 6×2 rear steer vehicle.
The hybrid vehicles combine a diesel engine with an electric motor designed to reduce fuel consumption by 20 per cent and run more quietly than a similar diesel truck.
The electric motor powers the vehicle from nought to 12 mph before the conventional bio-diesel engine takes over.
The vehicles are particularly suited to urban operations thanks to the 310ps on tap, automatic idle cut out and quick start.
In Paris, Norbert will use the trucks to make deliveries for the Carrefour group.
The company is also set to embark on a new phase of tests for alternative technologies for diesel-powered engines.