TNT Express Italy has signed a contract with Iveco for the delivery of 115 methane-powered vans by2013.
The new eco-friendly delivery van model features the same performance specifications ofits diesel counterpart while allowing for an estimated fuel cost reduction of 40 per cent.Furthermore, CO2 emissions are reduced by 5-8 per cent, resulting in a vehicle performance thatsurpasses Euro VI emission standards. Also, the vehicle is able switch back to traditional petrolin case its methane fuel runs out.
TNT will use the new methane vehicles in the Rome area as well as other parts of CentralItaly.
With the purchase of the new delivery vans, TNT is taking a further step towards reaching itsenvironmental goals as it will allow the company to reduce CO2 emissions of its Italy fleet by 370tonnes per year. Overall, TNT operates 2,900 vans for parcels delivery in the country. The companyrenewed 8 per cent of its Italy fleet in 2011 and an estimated 63 per cent of its vehicles areEuro IV and V compliant while 18 per cent satisfy Euro III standards.
Uffe Ekstedt, head of TNT Express Italy, said: “Iveco and TNT have experienced the successfultesting of the European Citylog Project which is concerned with sustainable mobility indelivery transport practices. This commercial accord represents an additional demonstration ofa common commitment to the environment and technological innovation. This deal is an exampleof our shared commitment with our partners: methane is the best short and mid-term solutionfor the reduction of harmful emissions and is an effective alternative with regard to the highcosts of fuel and transport.”
“This delivery,” explained Enzo Gioachin, Iveco’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing, “represents an important milestone for Iveco, a company that has long understood the importanceof methane as an alternative power source. The company is a European leader in natural gaspowered vehicles which respond to the increasing need for sustainable mobility.”
