Hermes has placed the largest ever initial order of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles in the UK, and is the first parcel carrier to have ordered the fleet of HGV tractor units, it claims.
As well as the new 30 strong fleet, each vehicle of which is expected to reduce greenhouse emissions by more than 80% versus their diesel equivalent, the company is also introducing 32 100% electric vans. They will be based at the company’s Gemini Park in Beckton, as Hermes has insourced its central London operation. The Gemini site will serve more than 100 delivery rounds inside the low emission zone. Hermes delivers on average 6,500 parcels per day in London, rising to 11,000 per day during peak.
The purchase of the tractors follow a six-monthh trial. They will be based at the Hermes Super hub in Rugby, which is near to the CNG refuelling station. Hermes is working towards reducing CO2 emissions by 50% by 2020.
Martijn de Lange, CEO of Hermes UK, said: “We’re proud of our strides forward in sustainability as we become the first parcel carrier to invest in bio fuels for our fleet. This, plus the additional investment in our electric vehicles, will not only support our clients in achieving their sustainability goals, but also ultimately benefit people across the UK as we all look to reduce our carbon footprint. As a parcel carrier delivering within central London, we are committed to helping improve air quality in the capital and supporting London on its path to a zero emission future, so we look forward to continuing to collaborate with Transport for London.”
Image credit: Hermes
