The postal service described the move as a "significant step" in its efforts to reduce carbon emissions and achieve net-zero emissions by 2040.
The eight 42-ton DAF XD 350E eHGVs will operate 24/7, handling medium-haul deliveries between logistics hubs and postal centers. Royal Mail has installed high-speed chargers at its two parcel centers, supported by its participation in the Electric Freightway Alliance. The ABB T360 chargers can add up to 60 miles of range in less than 15 minutes.
The new eHGV fleet is expected to help Royal Mail reduce approximately 100,000 tons of carbon emissions annually. The company also anticipates that this shift to electric vehicles will contribute to cutting operating costs.
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The new eHGV fleet is expected to help Royal Mail reduce approximately 100,000 tons of carbon emissions annually. Photo: Royal Mail. |
"Integrating electric trucks into our transport network is a major milestone in our decarbonization journey and achieving our net-zero emissions target", said Nick Dunn, Royal Mail's National Distribution and Fleet Director. "This is a crucial first step for us to learn how to effectively integrate eHGVs into our nationwide operations. We are combining modern vehicle technology with high-speed charging infrastructure – made possible by Electric Freightway – thereby changing how we transport over long distances."
The Gridserve-led Electric Freightway project is a 100 million GBP initiative, uniting over 30 businesses to build the UK's most advanced public charging network for electric trucks. The project aims to deploy over 200 chargers with capacities up to 350 kW and support over 140 electric trucks nationwide.
"We are delighted to see Royal Mail, along with other members of the Gridserve Electric Freightway Alliance, developing a robust eHGV charging station network", said Sam Clarke, Gridserve's Commercial Lead. "The stations at the Parcel Centers in the Midlands and North West England not only enhance charging capacity for these two regions but also contribute to reducing carbon emissions by replacing diesel trucks with eHGVs."
Royal Mail, the United Kingdom's national postal service, boasts a history spanning over 500 years. It operates one of Europe's largest delivery networks, serving millions of households and businesses daily. In recent years, Royal Mail has accelerated its green transition, focusing on reducing emissions and modernizing its fleet to achieve its net-zero emissions target by 2040.
By Hai My (Source: Logistics Manager)
