Ford Pro and Deutsche Post DHL Group have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that will see Ford Pro equip Deutsche Post DHL Group with more than 2,000 electric delivery vans by the end of 2023.
The agreement also covers a full suite of solutions to operate the electric fleet including access to Ford Pro’s connected E-Telematics software and charging solutions to reduce costs and improve efficiency as a part of the two organizations’ common zero-emission goals.
Ford Pro has already handed over its first E-Transits under the agreement, joining Deutsche Post DHL Group’s electric fleet used for last-mile deliveries in several countries. The order volume concentrates on the E-Transit panel vans designed for handling express shipments in the Americas and Europe. The vehicles join the Deutsche Post DHL Group fleet at the busiest time of year making more sustainable deliveries possible to customers during peak season. Additionally, purchases of Ford Pro Special Vehicles with a customized box for inner city distribution in Germany were concluded.
Deutsche Post DHL Group will invest €7bn (US$7.3bn) in the current decade on its path to net-zero emissions logistics. The company is targeting a share of 60% e-vehicles used for carbon-neutral pick-up and delivery by 2030, now also powered by Ford Pro’s line-up of electrified vehicles including the all-new E-Transit.
According to the companies, the MoU could potentially enable both companies to explore the co-development of future products as well as new digital and charging solutions. In addition to providing early access to ideas, Ford Pro will also deliver Deutsche Post DHL Group access to test vehicles and monitoring services as the two companies explore expanding their cooperation to a growing number of markets globally.
Hans Schep, general manager of Ford Pro Europe, said, “Ford Pro and Deutsche Post DHL Group share the vision of greater sustainability and a commitment to electrified solutions, and this agreement is a major step toward millions of deliveries being completed by electrified vehicles around the world. E-Transit is the top-selling commercial EV in North America and since June is also the best-seller in its segment in Europe, meaning the all-electric two-metric-ton van is already making big strides to support this ambition.”
Anna Spinelli, chief procurement officer and head of mobility at Deutsche Post DHL Group, said, “Electrification of last-mile logistics is a major pillar to decarbonize our operations. Adding the new Ford E-Transit to our global fleet of around 27,000 electric vans further strengthens our capability of providing green delivery services worldwide. Joining forces to address our logistics-specific requirements will drive operational and service efficiency further.”