Economy and Business

TNT launches China's first electric delivery fleet

By Ma Zhenhuan (China Daily Shanghai Bureau)
Updated: 2010-09-08 11:15

SHANGHAI: Dutch-based international express company TNT on Tuesday (September 7) unveiled the industry's first pure electric vehicle fleet in China, bolstering the company's efforts in reducing carbon emissions in the express industry.

Produced by Dongfeng Motor, one of China's leading automobile manufacturers, TNT's electric vehicle fleet – initially comprised of five vehicles – is locally designed, manufactured and assembled. After a successful three-month trial operation, the electric delivery fleet is now fully operational in Shanghai.

Designed to meet the distinct operational requirements of the express industry, these zero-emissions vehicles are powered by lithium batteries and feature high-tech monitoring systems that record power consumption data during operation, allowing for continuous optimization for delivery routes.

"TNT is committed to sustainable development of our industry across the globe. I am very proud that TNT is taking actions to lead the introduction of zero-emissions delivery vehicles in China," said Peter Bakker, CEO of TNT Group.

TNT's global objective is to improve its CO2 efficiency by 45 percent by 2020. "As a company vision, TNT aims to contribute to a low carbon emissions express industry through our daily operations," added Peter Bakker.

TNT's electric delivery vehicles have received the E-MARK certification, which are classified as "pure electric" and "zero emission." The vehicles require only two-and-a-half hours to be fully charged – less than an hour for fast charge, short journey mode – and can travel more than 120 kilometers on a full charge.

The pure electric vehicles are part of a comprehensive design program undertaken by Dong Feng Motor Group, which combined domestic R&D institutions and academic resources, to ensure each vehicle met with stringent local and international emissions standards. The result is a highly efficient, lightweight – yet safe – and economical vehicle that performs on par with traditional delivery vehicles.