UK-based parcel, freight and logistics specialist DX Group is to invest a further £3m (US$3.8m) in its electric fleet to be used exclusively for IKEA deliveries.
The investment will add 53 new electric vans to the fleet and follows the launch of an initial tranche of electric vans for IKEA in August 2022. The new vans will operate from six DX/IKEA depots in Heathrow, Milton Keynes, Reading, Sheffield, Southampton, and Willenhall.
The Maxus e-Deliver 9 vans have an operational carrying capacity of 1,162kg and a single-charge range of over 350km, with zero output emissions. The vehicles will be dual-liveried with DX and IKEA branding.
IKEA has been a DX customer for over seven years and uses the company’s logistics and two-person services in support of its online and retail operations. DX is IKEA’s largest provider of two-person home delivery services in the UK.
The investment is in addition to DX’s wider £20-25m (US$25-32m) three-year capital investment program, which is now in its second year. Investment to date has been focused on depots, equipment including vehicles, and in technology. DX is currently increasing the overall number of electric vehicles within its fleet, particularly for deliveries in Central London.
John Welsh, fulfillment sourcing manager at IKEA UK & Ireland, commented, “As our largest provider of two-person home delivery services in the UK, our partnership with DX is fundamental for IKEA in reaching our 100% zero-emission goals for home delivery. This latest investment therefore brings a significant and very positive development in our journey together.”
Ian Bolton, managing director for DX Logistics/2-Man, said, “We share IKEA’s goal to move to more environmentally friendly business practices, including the use of electric vehicles for deliveries, and are delighted that, with this investment, we will further reduce carbon emissions while maintaining the highest-possible service standards.”
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