DHL claims that the launch of two new transport innovations this week will drive down carbon emissions, reduce the number of vehicles on roads and deliver cost savings for customers.
The first is a new transport management system called Connected TMS which connects customers to DHL’s whole transport capability, as well as sub-contracted partners, allowing them to utilise DHL’s network regionally or nationally according to their volume requirements.
All customer orders are processed through TMS to allow planners to create the most efficient networks possible from all of the available options. TMS optimises cost by maximising the use of existing space, reducing empty miles and carbon emissions, claims the company.
It says TMS then feeds practical optimised routes to drivers then tracks their journey whilst giving customer service teams real-time status updates and proof of delivery, as well as live visibility of challenges, enabling them to find solutions.
The company has also launched TRAiLAR, thin film solar mats which are fitted to vehicle roofs and connected to the vehicle’s battery or additional onboard batteries and whose power is used to power different onboard activities such as tail lifts, reducing overall fuel consumption.
The company claims that as well as reduced CO2 emissions the technology enables lower fuel costs and maintenance spend with fuel savings of up to 5.2% during independent trials.
Phil Roe, MD, network logistics and transport, DHL Supply Chain UK and Ireland said: “Ultimately, we need fewer, cleaner and quieter vehicles on the roads. This can be achieved while also helping customers reduce their transport costs. That’s why we’re committed to developing new sustainable transport solutions that can be rolled out across all supply chains for the benefit of the environment, the public and our customers.”
DHL Supply Chain is actively integrating TRAiLAR across its own and customer fleets in the first instance and will extend the roll-out to third parties from 2019 onwards.
Image credit: DHL
