DHL Parcel has launched 14 new electric courier vans across London as the start of a national electric roll-out. The vans will operate out of DHL’s Docklands depot, where they will be charged overnight using onsite facilities to serve central London.

The Renault ZE Masters vans have a range of 75 miles, making them ideal for deliveries in urban areas. The vans will help improve air quality in London and bring down overall emissions from the DHL fleet.

Scott Laird, VP of operations at DHL Parcel said: “Bringing down emissions from commercial vehicles is crucial if we want to make a difference to air quality and the environment. The launch of these vehicles in London is an important step towards our target of zero logistics-related carbon emissions by 2050.  

“Recent enhancements in battery life and load capacity have made the use of electric vehicles in urban areas a reality and we’re committed to extending the roll-out in other parts of the country.”

Charging facilities have been installed in a number of DHL Parcel depots in readiness for more electric vehicles and all plans for future upgrades and new builds, have charging facilities planned as standard.

Scott Laird, continues: “As electric technology continues to advance, we have every intention of investing in future models that can serve larger, more rural areas.”

A key target on DHL’s journey towards zero emissions is operating clean pick-up and delivery services. The electrification of the DHL Parcel fleet is a major contributor to this.