DHL Express has adopted 10 new Renault ZE Masters vans, marking the first stage in its plan to operate 400 electric vehicles in its UK-wide fleet by 2025.

The new pure electric vans have a range of around 75 miles and a payload capacity of circa 10 cubic metres. 

Richard Crook, director of fleet at DHL Express, said: “We’re delighted to be able to announce the roll-out of 10 new best-in-class electric vehicles as part of our UK courier fleet.

“In our ambition to become the most environmentally-friendly provider on the market we have to balance the needs of customers with protecting and respecting the planet. 

“Recent innovations within battery range and battery technology mean we can now deploy these more sustainable vehicles as part of our fleet and be confident in their ability to meet operational requirements, reducing our reliance on internal combustion engines."

Recent electric van advances, particularly in battery range and charging technology, now mean that electric vans are a practical alternative to traditional fuel vehicles, says DHL.

Alex Williams, TfL’s director of city planning, said: “Freight and servicing are the lifeblood of London’s economy, but it is important that we work to reduce its impact on our Capital’s toxic air and global climate change. 

“Alternatives to diesel and petrol-powered vehicles, such as electric vehicles and cycle freight, can help to make London healthier and safer for everybody and I’m pleased to see companies such as DHL investing in new ways of doing freight.”

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