DHL Parcel has just taken delivery of 14 Renault ZE Master vans, which will soon begin deliveries in London. This is part of its target of zero logistics-related carbon emissions by 2050. These vans have a range of 75 miles and will operate out of DHL’s docklands depot. Onsite charging facilities will allow them to charge overnight, ready to serve central London every day.
Scott Laird, VP of operations at DHL Parcel, said:
“Bringing down emissions from commercial vehicles is crucial if we want to make a difference to air quality and the environment.
“Recent enhancements in battery life and load capacity have made the use of electric vehicles in urban areas a reality. We’re committed to extending the roll-out in other parts of the country.”
Charging points have also been installed at other DHL depots, preparing them for more electric vans. This shows DHL’s commitment to its 2050 goal.
DHL isn’t the only logistics company to go electric. Amazon recently rolled out a fleet of 20 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter vans in Exeter. The company also plans to add more than 1,800 electric vans to its EU delivery fleet this year with 500 of those planned for the UK.
At the end of 2020, DHL also began operating the first 16-tonne electric van in the UK. The Volvo FL Electric is now part of DHL Supply Chain’s fleet in London and is responsible for last-mile deliveries in the West End.
Ian Clough, managing director of network logistics and transport at DHL Supply Chain said:
“The Volvo FL Electric is the perfect solution to the challenges of urban logistics, allowing us to make deliveries in densely populated inner-city locations where air quality and noise pollution challenges are highest.”
Part of DHL’s zero-emission plan is operating clean delivery services; the electrification of the DHL Parcel and Supply Chain fleets will be a major contributor to this.
