This sends a strong signal about the continued development of our sustainability strategy. It means that we are operating emission-free long-distance transport for the first time and tackling a particularly CO₂-intensive area.
Jan Kerkhoff
Senior Group Manager Corporate Sustainability
Customers already benefit from a growing number of emission-free transport solutions for the last mile : DPD Germany is continuously expanding its electric fleet for local transport and gradually replacing diesel trucks with fully electric vehicles. The electric truck makes the daily connection between Aichach in Bavaria and Hörsching in Austria.
Group-wide, CO₂ emissions are to be reduced to zero by 2040. Each battery-powered electric truck significantly reduces emissions in long-distance transport. “Our customers also benefit from this,” explains M.Kerkhoff. "Because reducing greenhouse gases in parcel transport also has a positive effect on their carbon footprint." The use of battery-powered trucks is still in its infancy in Germany. This is due to high purchase costs, a charging infrastructure that is still under development, and reduced payload due to batteries. Lower operating costs and the expansion of the charging infrastructure are making this technology increasingly competitive.
Over the entire service life, the total costs are becoming increasingly similar. This is because electric trucks have lower operating, energy, and maintenance costs and are exempt from tolls until the end of the year.
From January 1, 2026, they will only be subject to a quarter of the regular truck toll. With rising diesel prices and falling battery costs, they could even be cheaper in the long term.
The manufacturer Daimler-Benz specifies a range of 500 kilometers for the electric truck, which is continuously being tested in real-world operation. Since the driving behaviors differs greatly from that of conventional trucks, drivers receive special instruction, including training on safety measures for the new drive technology.
Sustainability manager Kerkhoff is confident : “With the first electric truck, we are sending a clear signal for a sustainable future and gaining valuable experience for the further expansion of our electric fleet.”
