DHL Supply Chain expands electric yard truck fleet in the US

DHL Supply Chain, part of DHL Group, has announced the introduction of the 50^th electric yard truck from manufacturer Orange EV to its operations in the US.

Yard trucks, also known as terminal tractors or shunt trucks, are vehicles commonly used within confined spaces such as distribution centres, warehouses and industrial yards. They are primarily used for short-distance transport within these facilities and are characterised by their manoeuvrability, allowing them to navigate tight corners and crowded environments.

DHL Supply Chain has estimated that operating 50 electric yard trucks in lieu of diesel will eliminate more than 2,500 tons (c. 2,268 tonnes) of CO₂ emissions annually. The company has committed to phasing out diesel yard trucks by 2025 and doubling the number of electric vehicles (EVs) in its yard truck fleet.

Stephan Schablinski, vice president of GoGreen at DHL Supply Chain, said: “We cannot ignore the impact our operations have on the environment as a logistics company and therefore we are committed to implementing more sustainable approaches to doing business.

“Through partnerships with companies like Orange EV we have been able to develop innovative solutions that reimagine the industry of logistics and take us closer to a green future.”

The first of DHL Supply Chain’s customers to use Orange EV fleet trucks at its warehouse facilities was alcoholic beverage company Diageo, which owns several brands including Guinness, Smirnoff, Johnnie Walker, Baileys, Tanqueray and Captain Morgan.

Lucy Fishwick, vice president of logistics at Diageo North America, commented: “Eight years ago we were excited to bring electric yard trucks into our Plainfield bottling site. This was possible thanks to our partnership with DHL Supply Chain and we are proud to share the goal to create a sustainable, low-carbon future.”

“This is a great example of collaboration with our suppliers prioritising new technologies and electric vehicles that have contributed in our efforts to decarbonise our operations.”

Source: logisticsmanager.com