DB Schenker, a player in logistics and transportation services, has taken a significant step towards greener and more sustainable operations by acquiring 53 E-Tech-D electric trucks from Renault. This substantial order marks a major milestone in the company’s efforts to embrace eco-friendly mobility solutions.
The order, which is the largest of its kind for DB Schenker in France, is set to be completed by March 2024, with deliveries commencing this September. Renault Trucks, a subsidiary of the Volvo Group, will deliver 50 E-Tech-D electric vehicles in a 16-ton configuration, while the remaining three will be 19-ton trucks.
See also: DB Schenker to Add 100 Battery-Electric Mercedes-Benz eActros LongHaul Trucks
To support the growing electric fleet, DB Schenker has initiated preparations, including the installation of charging infrastructure across 19 metropolitan areas, although specific locations have yet to be disclosed. These electric trucks will be employed for various logistics tasks, including urban, suburban, and regional transportation.
FrĆ©dĆ©ric Vallet, CEO of Schenker France, emphasized the company’s dedication to electric mobility, stating that electric trucks are now an “integral part” of their portfolio. He also expressed DB Schenker’s commitment to increasing the share of electric vehicles in their operations continually.
The upcoming routes for these electric trucks are expected to cover an average daily distance of 150 to 200 kilometers, well within the impressive 300-kilometer range offered by Renault’s electric trucks. In 2022, Renault Trucks accounted for nearly 25% of all medium- and heavy-duty electric truck sales in Europe, with 379 E-Tech-D models sold, making this substantial Schenker order a noteworthy addition.
Notably, this isn’t the first collaboration between DB Schenker and Renault Trucks. The logistics giant has been actively exploring a wide range of electric vehicle options, including the Mercedes eActros, MAN eTruck, eTrailer from Trailer Dynamics, and the Volta Zero from Volta Trucks. A total of 1,500 units have been ordered from Volta Trucks, showcasing DB Schenker’s dedication to diversifying its electric fleet.
See also: DB Schenker to Electrify Fleet with 100 New MAN eTrucks by 2026
In addition to battery-electric vehicles, DB Schenker is also delving into hydrogen-based transport solutions. The company is currently testing a Hyzon Hymax 250 and an H2 semitrailer tractor, a 40-tonne vehicle, for daily operations between their Cologne office and Eupen in Belgium.
DB Schenker’s commitment to sustainability is resolute, with the company aiming to be a leading provider of green logistics. According to the firm, battery-powered electromobility can reduce CO2 equivalent emissions by over 90% during high acceleration. As part of its ambitious goals, DB Schenker is targeting CO2 neutrality in urban logistics across Europe by 2030, with a broader objective of achieving complete carbon neutrality by 2040. This latest acquisition of electric trucks from Renault Trucks underscores their unwavering dedication to this cause.
