DX Freight signs charging infrastructure deal with Mer

DX Freight has chosen Mer as its charging infrastructure partner to provide consultancy, support and aftercare to underpin its electrification plans.  

The company recently invested £750,000 with further investment planned over the next three years to establish an initial fleet of over 60 electric vehicles (EVs) for IKEA’s home-delivery services.

The first phase, launched in August 2022, is an initial 12 electric vans operating from DX depots in Southampton and Warrington.

The new fleet comprises the Maxus e-Deliver 9 marque vans, which have an operational carrying capacity of 1,162kg and a single-charge range of over 219miles, with zero output emissions. The vehicles are dual-liveried with DX and IKEA branding.

Natasha Fry, head of strategic accounts for Mer, said: “We are proud to support DX Freight in its transition to electric vehicles.

“We look forward to working with DX Freight expanding its charging network as its electric fleet grows, and to strengthening our relationship with the wider DX Group.”

As part of the consultancy agreement, Mer have conducted a full audit and surveys of all 87 depots, to ascertain and advise on any energy constraints, to ensure all EVs can be fully charged overnight.

Mer has also installed 7kW fast chargers from Alfen, to cater for DX Freight’s needs and it is using Mer Connect, a back-office platform, which gives full visibility in real time of charger status and usage.

Paul Ibbetson, managing director of DX Freight, said: “Our vehicles are business-critical assets that are key to delivering the consistently high level of service we provide to our customers.

“We therefore needed an EV charging partner who understood our business and wanted to support us, as we progress into a more sustainable electric fleet.

“Mer ticked all our boxes and we look forward to working with them in the future.”