DHL trials world's first in hybrid technology for HCVs in distribution

In partnership with manufacturer Volvo Trucks, DHL Supply Chain will trial the world's first 18-tonne hybrid distribution truck that could achieve up to 15 per cent in fuel savings. Powered by an electric motor and a diesel engine, which can be used separately or together, the hybrid vehicle will allow for reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions and lower noise levels.

DHL and Volvo are partnering on a number of initiatives aiming at reshaping the logistics of the future by making it cleaner, safer and more efficient.

DHL and Volvo agreed to partner for trialling the vehicle for a two-year period. The partnership arose from a mutual interest in the development of new energy-efficient technologies and has seen DHL work closely with Volvo on the specifications of the vehicle. It will also benefit from a dry freight 'Teardrop' body fitted by body builder DON-BUR.

The vehicle was just unveiled in Hatfield and will initially be operated in and around London. Overall, the truck will be used with several DHL customers, also interested in reducing  their CO₂ emissions, like NHS Supply Chain.

New ways of reducing the carbon footprint of transport

Ian MacAulay, Innovation Manager, UK Fleet Engineering Services, DHL Supply Chain, said: “Reducing carbon emissions is an important issue facing businesses and we always endeavour to make sure we drive positive environmental change. DHL has made a firm commitment to improve its carbon efficiency by 30 per cent by 2020, and new developments 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 efficient vehicles also have the benefit of reducing costs and in a time when businesses are keen to drive out inefficiencies this is an important cost saver to recognise."
Key features and benefits of the vehicle include:

• Considerable fuel savings, potential of 15 per cent compared to conventionally powered vehicles
• Regenerative braking to capture energy for storage in its onboard Lithium ion batteries
• The electrical energy is used for the electric motor to accelerate the truck up to 10 to 15 kph
• Zero emissions when operated in electric mode
• Reduced noise emissions when in electric mode
• Excellent driveability due to combined torque from the electric motor and diesel engine, thanks to the parallel hybrid system

Goran Nyberg, Volvo Group UK and Ireland Managing Director, said: "DHL has ambitious environmental targets and we are pleased to be the selected partner to assist them develop new ways of reducing the carbon footprint of transport."