DPD is set to trial a large electric vehicle in London’s ultra-low emission zone (ULEZ).
The company will begin using a 16-tonne delivery vehicle from Volta Trucks in the first quarter of 2021.
The vehicles will help serve DPD’s micro-depot strategy, which will see it supplying parcels to eight smaller hubs using electric vehicles.
London’s ULEZ sees vans that do not meet the Euro 6 emissions standard charged £12.50 per day within the specified zone, while lorries will be charged up to £100. The same as the existing congestion charge zone, it covers a large swathe of central London.
The rules will extend to a larger zone from October 2021. Other cities including Oxford are looking at introducing low or zero emission zones.
Olly Craughan, CSR general manager of DPD Group UK Ltd, said: “The vehicle is an ideal fit for our Urban Logistics strategy; and the fact that it will be the most sustainable commercial vehicle is a fantastic achievement too, and mirrors our own strategy to be the UK’s leader in sustainable delivery.”
Rob Fowler, CEO of Volta Trucks, added; “As the world’s first purpose-built full-electric large commercial vehicle, the Volta Zero was specifically designed to deliver parcels and freight in inner city locations where today’s air quality and noise pollution challenges are at their worst.
“The Volta Zero’s full-electric, zero-emission operation is perfectly suited to DPD’s distribution requirements within London’s strict Ultra Low Emission Zone, delivering parcels to Central London’s customers in a clean and efficient way.
“The Volta Zero is also much safer for the city’s pedestrians and other road users than other large goods vehicles, thanks to the unique design of the cab that offers the driver significantly enhanced visibility. Its full-electric drivetrain also offers near-silent operation, meaning DPD will be able to utilise the Volta Zero in the centre of London in an efficient 24-hour operation.”
