In a new strategic alliance with Volvo Trucks, DHL Supply Chain has already taken delivery of the first 200 of an order for 700 new trucks from the Swedish manufacturer. The order is part of a £90 million investment in its fleet, aimed at reducing the overall emissions from the contract logistics market leader, part of the Deutsche Post DHL Group. While 200 of the trucks replace existing assets, the remaining 500 represent an expansion of fleet size, including replacing rental vehicles with DHL-owned vehicles.
The bulk of the order comprises 550 FH460 6x2 tractors with Euro-6d engines, including 10 evaluation vehicles with the TC turbo-compound engine, with I-See predictive cruise control and driver support package. The driver friendly spec includes Globetrotter XL cabs, leather trim and in-cab fridges. Safety measures include Stillard front corner protection systems and fully enclosed catwalks by SB Components. The remainder include 25 FH LNG 4x2 tractors for DHL’s TK Maxx contract, FE 6x2 rear-steer rigids for Trade Team and a mixture of smaller quantities of other models including FM tractors and 6x2 rigids, and some FH four-seater training trucks.
Following an initial tender process, a DHL spokesperson said “Volvo was chosen for the quality of its products, as well as a commitment to deliver comprehensive benefits throughout the life of the fleet, including dedicated account management, driver support and regular vehicle reviews to ensure maximum fuel efficiency continues to be delivered.”
The CEO of DHL Supply Chain UKI, José Nava (pictured on left above with Robert Grozdanovski, MD of Volvo Trucks UK and Ireland), elaborating on its environmental policy added “Today marks the next step in our commitment to reduce all logistics-related emissions to net zero by 2050. Despite uncertain economic conditions, customer demand remains strong so we are continuing to invest in our business and our people. Our partnership with Volvo will deliver significant added value to both our customers and our drivers with the new vehicles improving our operational efficiency and reducing our carbon emissions as we support the development of our customers’ supply chains.”
