TNT unveils fully electric vehicle fleet

Sunday, 3 October 2010 23:30 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

TNT Express, the leading express company, has launched the industry’s first pure electric vehicle fleet in China.

The introduction of the electric delivery vehicles further bolsters the company’s efforts in reducing carbon emissions in the express industry.

Produced by Dongfeng Motor, one of China’s leading automobile manufacturers, TNT’s electric vehicle fleet – initially comprised of five vehicles – is designed, manufactured and assembled in China. After a successful three-month trial operation, the electric delivery fleet is now fully operational in Shanghai- China.

“We believe that innovations such as these could eventually transform the express industry globally. While on the one hand the launch of this electric vehicle fleet complements TNT’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint, on the other, we are setting an industry trend and a benchmark,” stated Nael Attiyat, sales and marketing director of TNT SAB Saudi Arabia.

Designed to meet the distinct operational requirements of the express industry, these zero-emissions vehicles are powered by lithium batteries and feature high-tech monitoring systems that record power consumption data during operation, allowing for continuous optimisation for delivery routes.

“TNT is committed to sustainable development of our industry across the globe. I am very proud that TNT is taking actions to lead the introduction of zero-emissions delivery vehicles in China,” said Peter Bakker, chief executive of TNT Group.

TNT’s electric delivery vehicles have received the E-Mark certification, which are classified as “pure electric” and “zero emission.” The vehicles require only two-and-a-half hours to be fully charged – less than an hour for fast charge, short journey mode – and can travel more than 120 kms on a full charge.

TNT’s global objective is to improve its CO2 efficiency by 45 per cent by 2020.