DHL to deploy 44 electric Volvo trucks in Europe

The DHL order includes 40 model Volvo FE and Volvo FL electric trucks to be used for package deliveries in urban transports. Photo: Volvo Trucks

In a move to accelerate its shift to zero-emissions heavy electric trucks, Deutsche Post DHL Group will deploy a total of 44 new electric Volvo trucks on routes in Europe. The order includes 40 Volvo FE and FL models, which will be used for package deliveries in urban transports, as well as four Volvo FM Electric trucks to be used for regional hauling in the UK. Eight trucks have already been ordered including six by DHL Parcel UK and two by DHL Freight.

Deutsche Post DHL Group estimates the electric vehicles will provide an annual savings of nearly 600 tons of CO2 and nearly 225,000 liters of diesel fuel. The transition will enable the company to meet growing customer demand for green and sustainable solutions and help it achieve its long-term goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, said Pablo Ciano, executive vice president for Corporate Development.

“As a logistics service provider, the conversion of our vehicle fleet is an important lever to help us avoid CO2 emissions on the road, as well. Several of our divisions will thus benefit from this agreement with Volvo Trucks,” he added.

A major factor in DHL’s decision to ramp up its transition to zero-emissions vehicles is the positive experience it has had since November 2020 using an electric Volvo truck for last-mile deliveries into London’s West End shopping district. The vehicle was the first fully electric commercial heavy truck used for urban logistics in the UK.

Photo: Volvo Trucks

In 2019, Volvo Trucks became one of the first truck brands to begin serial production of electric truck models. It currently leads the market for heavy all-electric trucks in Europe, with a market share of 42% in 2021. The company has delivered electric trucks to a range of customers in Europe, North America and Australia.

In a move to further accelerate the shift to zero-emissions vehicles, Volvo Trucks and Deutsche Post DHL Group signed a cooperation agreement that involves adoption of new Volvo technologies and joint development activities within the field of electrification. It also includes analysis by Volvo Trucks of DHL’s transport operations, with the goal to ensure successful deployment of tailor-made electrical transport solutions.

“DHL is an important global logistics provider committed to reduce its impact on climate change. Together, we can make a difference for the better and I’m proud we will work in the spirit of partnership, aiming to reach our science-based targets to reduce our climate impacts,” stated Roger Alm, president of Volvo Trucks.