DHL is to trial the world’s first 18-tonne hybrid distribution truck, which could achieve up to15% in fuel savings.
The two-year trial, in partnership with manufacturer Volvo Trucks, will take place in the UK,using live deliveries for several DHL Supply Chain customers that are also interested in reducingtheir CO2 emissions, including NHS Supply Chain.
Powered by an electric motor and a diesel engine – which can be used separately or together –the hybrid vehicle is expected to generate significantly reduced fuel consumption, lower emissionsand lower noise levels.
DHL told CEP-Research that it was too early to talk about how many of the vehicles it mayorder if the trial is successful. A spokeswoman said that Volvo would first need to analyse theresults of the trial and determine whether to proceed and develop the vehicle further towardsserial production.
A Volvo Trucks UK spokesman told CEP-Research that this was the first hybrid vehicle it haddeveloped for the distribution sector, although there were one or two trials taking place withinthe waste collection sector using hybrid trucks.
Deutsche Post DHL has also been involved since 2008 in trials of a hybrid 7.5-tonne vehicle,in partnership with Daimler.
A spokeswoman told CEP-Research: “We tested five vehicles in our German Mail division. Usingthe results of the trial, Daimler is currently working on developing the second generation ofvehicles – for example implementing an improved battery management system.
“We will again participate in the trial, this time with 10 vehicles across Germany. We willbe able to share detailed test results in the autumn, when we also will be announcing the newtrial.”
Ian MacAulay, Innovation Manager for UK Fleet Engineering Services at DHL Supply Chain, said:“Reducing carbon emissions is an important issue facing businesses and we always endeavour to makesure we drive positive environmental change.
“DHL has made a firm commitment to improve its carbon efficiency by 30% by 2020, and newdevelopments in vehicle technology and fuels will be vital in achieving the target.
“This hybrid solution is a world first for 18-tonne distribution vehicles. Energy-efficientvehicles also have the benefit of reducing costs and in a time when businesses are keen to driveout inefficiencies, this is an important cost saver to recognise,” MacAulay added.
