DHL Parcel is rolling out a further 50 new electric vans across UK cities, including Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester, Leicester, Bristol and Southampton, before the end of 2021.
Following the introduction of electric vans in London earlier in the year, DHL Parcel is investing a further £2.8m to extend its fleet across the UK. Additional vehicles are also being added to the company’s electric fleet in London.
The zero-emissions Mercedes-Benz eSprinter L2 has a range of 95 miles and a payload of 775kgs. The bodies have been customised for ease of use for drivers and to ensure continued high service levels.
According to the logistics company, the rapid charging and extended range of this next generation of electric vans makes them ideal for use in city environments, bringing down the carbon impact of last mile deliveries.
Scott Laird, vice president of operations at DHL Parcel, said: “Just a few months after our initial electric van deployment in London, we’re delighted to be entering the next phase of our roll-out plans, extending the benefits of these new vehicles across the country.
“The environmental benefits as well as the high performance of these electric vans make it possible to continue supporting customers through the growth of e-commerce while improving air quality in major cities.”
Deutsche Post DHL Group plans to have more than 80,000 e-vehicles on the road and 60% of last mile delivery electrified by 2030. DHL added it is committed to continuing the roll-out of zero emissions vehicles to achieve these targets. Across the UK business, it now has 129 EVs in operation including the UK’s first fully-electric 16 tonne truck.
