DPD signs EV charging infrastructure deal with BP Pulse

DPD has struck a deal for BP Pulse to help transform the delivery company’s charging capabilities across its nationwide network. 

The agreement will see BP Pulse both upgrading existing charging infrastructure and installing new rapid (DC) charging across dozens of DPD UK's depots, supporting the fleet operator’s growing electric vehicle (EV) fleet. 

DPD currently has close to 4,000 EVs on its fleet in the UK, representing over 35% of its van fleet.  

As part of Geopost, DPD UK has a 2040 net zero target, which is validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). 

DPD UK has confirmed that the UK operation is on track with the trajectory required to meet the group target.

The first phase of installation and upgrade is well underway with 14 sites already live and a further 16 sites planned for delivery in the new year. 

This includes strategic hub locations at key sites in Edinburgh, Leeds, Glasgow, Liverpool and Middleton. 

DPD is already planning for further sites in 2025 to establish a robust charging network for DPD's expanding electric fleet nationwide. 

It also plans to explore future integrated digital solutions with BP Pulse. This, says DPD, will help it continue to manage its EV fleet as efficiently as possible and ensure that its vans are out on the road delivering parcels to customers when they need to be. 

Tim Jones, director of marketing, communications and sustainability at DPD group UK, said: “At DPD we are committed to our net zero journey and the transition of our fleet to all-electric vehicles has been a top priority for a number of years. 

“To reach our targets we plan to continue to invest in EVs and new innovation, but also to partner with the very best in the sector to learn and develop new solutions at a more rapid pace. 

“We have proved over the last six years that EVs can perform incredibly well within our operation and this partnership will enable our depots and drivers to operate as efficiently as possible going forward.”

The depot infrastructure deal builds upon the existing offer where DPD drivers currently have preferential charging rates at BP Pulse’s rapid and ultra-fast public charging network.

Valerio Ferro, general manager of BP Pulse UK, said: “We're creating a blueprint for large-scale fleet electric charging solutions. 

“This agreement demonstrates bp pulse's ability to deliver full-service charging solutions that keep businesses moving efficiently and effectively.”

Read more from Fleet News on how DPD is plotting an optimum route to an electric future.