DHL launches hybrid electric truck with first deployment in Germany

Global logistics company DHL has launched a hybrid electric truck built by commercial vehicles builder Scania which it intends to deploy for work this month.

According to a press release by Scania on 20 February, the two companies will test the electric truck with fuel-powered range extender before deploying more units into the fleet.

The jointly developed Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) will be tested by Post & Parcel Germany division starting February 2025 for parcel transport between Berlin and Hamburg.

Significant progress

The new truck has a fuel-powered generator that can be used to extend the vehicle’s range should it run out of electric power. 

Although this is not the ultimate goal of transition to electric vehicles, it is an interim solution according to the two companies.

While on the journey to being fully electric, there are hurdles such as lack of charging points, the high costs of ensuring enough charging capacity at the depots during seasonal peaks, and the strain on the grid and high spot prices for electricity on for instance calm winter days.

Commenting, DHL Group CEO Tobias Meyer said it is a long journey to 100% clean energy, so the company must do its part.

“Instead of waiting for this day (of full electric vehicles) to come, DHL and Scania are collaborating on a pragmatic solution for making logistics more sustainable and reducing CO2 emissions by more than 80%. This vehicle is a sensible, practical solution that can make an immediate contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in freight transport short-term.”

While the truck runs on 80 – 90% on renewable electricity, the fuel-powered generator serves to supplement it for now, replacing one of the battery packs in the truck.

The EREV is a 10.5 meter long truck with a maximum weight of 40 metric tons. It is powered by a 230kW electric engine (295 kW peak). 

Energy is delivered by a 416 kWh battery and a 120 kW gasoline powered generator. With the aid of the onboard generator, the truck’s range extends up to 800 kilometers.