Ford Pro and Deutsche Post DHL Group Announce New Collaboration

Ford Pro and Deutsche Post DHL Group have recently signed a memorandum of understanding to accelerate the use of electric vans for global logistics operations. This underscores both companies’ commitment to offering sustainable/green services.

(Bonn/Cologne) Ford Pro will equip Deutsche Post DHL Group with more than 2,000 electric delivery vans worldwide by the end of 2023 to enhance their leading position in the use of electric vans for last-mile delivery globally. This highlights the planned collaboration between the two partners. In line with the zero-emission goals of both organizations, the signed agreement includes a complete package of solutions for operating the electric fleet, including access to Ford Pro’s connected e-telematics software and charging solutions to reduce operating costs and optimize efficiency.

Ford aims to make all vehicle sales emission-free by 2035 and to be CO2-neutral in its European plants, logistics, and suppliers by the same year, and globally by 2050 at the latest.

Deutsche Post DHL Group, the world’s leading logistics provider, is committed to strengthening clean operations for climate protection and will invest €7 billion this decade on its path to net-zero emissions logistics. Deutsche Post DHL Group aims for a 60% share of electric vehicles for climate-neutral pickups and deliveries by 2030. The company is now also relying on the new E-Transit1 from Ford Pro.

“Ford Pro and Deutsche Post DHL Group share the vision of greater sustainability and the commitment to electrified solutions. This agreement is an important step towards millions of deliveries being made with electric vans around the world. The E-Transit is the best-selling electric vehicle in North America and has also been the best-selling in its segment in Europe since June. This means that the all-electric 2-ton van is already making significant progress in supporting these ambitions,” said Hans Schep, General Manager, Ford Pro, Europe.

“Electrifying last-mile logistics is a key pillar for decarbonizing our operations. The addition of the new Ford E-Transit to our global fleet of around 27,000 electric vans strengthens our ability to offer environmentally friendly delivery services worldwide. By pooling our strengths and considering our logistics-specific requirements, we will further enhance service quality and operational efficiency,” said Anna Spinelli, Chief Procurement Officer & Head of Mobility, Deutsche Post DHL Group.

Ford Pro has already delivered the first E-Transits under the agreement, which will be integrated into Deutsche Post DHL Group’s electric fleet and used for last-mile delivery in several countries worldwide.2 The order volume focuses on the E-Transit vans designed for handling express shipments in America and Europe. The vehicles will be added to Deutsche Post DHL Group’s fleet during the busiest time of the year, enabling a more sustainable delivery to customers during the peak season. Additionally, the purchase of electric parcel delivery vehicles with a customized box structure for urban delivery in Germany has been completed. Approximately 800 of these electric vans will be in operation in Germany by the end of 2023.

The memorandum of understanding signed by Ford and Deutsche Post DHL Group will enable both companies to advance the joint development of future products as well as new digital service offerings and charging solutions. Ford Pro not only provides early access to innovative ideas but also enables Deutsche Post DHL Group to access test vehicles and vehicle monitoring services as the two companies explore expanding their collaboration to a growing number of markets worldwide.

Photo: © Deutsche Post DHL