Logistics firm DHL is aiming to enhance its supply chain through the use of a new 18-tonne hybrid distribution truck, which is believed to be the first of its kind in the world.
DHL Supply Chain is currently carrying out tests to see how it can streamline its global operations and the first move was the new truck.
Usually, hybrid vehicles are limited to 7.5 tonnes by battery and motor technology, but the new vehicle uses battery power for low speed, low torque work but a conventional diesel engine for higher speeds and has therefore been able to run an 18-tonne body and carry far more freight.
Ian MacAulay, innovation manager of fleet engineering services at DHL, told Logistics Manager: "With the promise of lower fuel consumption, improved emissions and quieter operating, we're very keen to test and develop the technology across a number of applications."
He added that if the vehicle can replicate the savings seen on smaller hybrids, the company is hopeful of achieving fuel and CO2 savings of five per cent.
Writing in the Environmental Leader recently, Bill Olson, director of the office of sustainability and stewardship for mobile devices at Motorola, said that forming suitable supply chain partnerships can be the key to helping reduce the environmental impact among the planet's biggest firms.
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