Ford, DHL group to electrify last mile delivery

Ford Pro, the division of Ford specializing in commercial vans and truck, and Deutsche Post DHL Group recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate the deployment of electrified vans used for logistics operations worldwide.

As part of a recent MoU, Ford Pro will supply and Deutsche Post DHL Group with more than 2000 electric delivery vans worldwide by the end of 2023 for last mile delivery worldwide. (Photo: DHL)

As part of the planned collaboration, Ford Pro will equip Deutsche Post DHL Group with more than 2000 electric delivery vans worldwide by the end of 2023 for last mile delivery worldwide. The agreement covers a full suite of solutions to operate the electric fleet including access to Ford Pro’s connected E-Telematics software and charging solutions in order to reduce costs and optimize efficiency as a part of the two organizations’ common zero emission goals.

Ford is targeting zero emissions for all vehicle sales and carbon neutrality across its European footprint of facilities, logistics and suppliers by 2035, and carbon neutrality globally no later than 2050.

Deutsche Post DHL Group, a major global logistics company, is targeting a share of 60% e-vehicles used for carbon neutral pick-up and delivery by 2030, now also powered by Ford Pro’s line-up of electrified vehicles including the all-new E-Transit.1

“Ford Pro and Deutsche Post DHL Group share the vision of greater sustainability and a commitment to electrified solutions, and this agreement is a major step towards millions of deliveries being completed by electrified vehicles around the world,” said Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe. “E-Transit is the top-selling commercial EV in North America and since June is also the best-seller in its segment in Europe, meaning the all-electric 2.0 tonne van is already making big strides to support this ambition.”

Ford Pro has already handed over its first E-Transits under the agreement, joining Deutsche Post DHL Group’s electric fleet used for last mile deliveries in several countries worldwide. The order volume concentrates on the E-Transit panel vans designed for handling express shipments in the Americas and Europe. Additionally purchases of Ford Pro Special Vehicles with a customized box for inner city distribution in Germany, were concluded.

The MoU will also potentially allow both companies to explore the co-development of future products as well as new digital and charging solutions. In addition to providing early access to innovative ideas, Ford Pro will also deliver Deutsche Post DHL Group access to test vehicles and monitoring services.

“Electrification of last mile logistics is a major pillar to decarbonize our operations,” said Anna Spinelli, chief procurement officer and head of Mobility at Deutsche Post DHL Group. “Adding the new Ford E-Transit to our global fleet of around 27,000 electric vans further strengthens our capability of providing green delivery services worldwide. Joining forces to address our logistics specific requirements will drive operational and service efficiency further.”