DHL and Ninatrans reach new milestone with electric trucks

DHL and Ninatrans together have reached a new milestone with the introduction of two fully electric trucks from Ninatrans, which will operate exclusively for DHL. These 100% electric trucks mark an important step towards a CO2-neutral future in road transport.

Equipped with two powerful electric motors, a range of 300 kilometers and continuous power of 490KW, these Volvo FM Electric distribution trucks are perfectly suited for regional transport. The trucks not only offer a smooth driving experience, but also an emission-free solution that is in line with both companies’ sustainability goals. “With these trucks we want to lead the way in emission-free road transport,” says Stijn Verbeeck, Physical Operations Director at DHL. Together with David Bellon, Head of Airfreight Belgium, he emphasizes the pride in being among the first in the industry.

David Bellon adds, “Sustainability is one of the strategic pillars for DHL. The goal is to completely decarbonize our operations by 2050. One way we do this is by investing in initiatives like this one.

We are proud to have the largest fleet of electric vehicles in the logistics sector and the highest share of sustainable jet fuel (SAF) of any airline worldwide in 2023. This is the beginning of a promising journey together with Ninatrans.”

DHL and Ninatrans continue to work together and look forward with anticipation to further developments in electric vehicles. While these first trucks will travel their routes in Brussels, both companies are already planning the next steps to realize their shared vision of sustainable logistics.

Benny Smets emphasizes the strategic role of this innovation: “This is a logical next step for Ninatrans, which has been investing in sustainable solutions for years. The experience we gain with these first electric vehicles will help us support our customers in their future choices towards more green solutions for transporting their goods. In doing so, we are looking at all possibilities, ranging from electric over HVO and Bio-LNG to hydrogen solutions.”

Charging of these vehicles will take place at DHL’s site. Investment is also being made in a 180 kW DC fast charger on the Ninatrans site in Leuven that will allow an electric truck to be charged within 3 hours.