DHL has expanded its solar-powered parcel delivery operations in Berlin by introducing a second, larger electric vessel on the Spree River, the company said, as it scales efforts to shift urban logistics onto waterways.
The new vessel will operate on a route linking Köpenick with the Osthafen near the Oberbaum Bridge, connecting multiple stops equipped with solar-powered parcel lockers. The expansion follows a pilot launched in 2022 in partnership with BEHALA and shipping company Solarwaterworld, which tested battery-electric vessels transporting parcels between Spandau and Westhafen.
After extending the pilot in 2023, DHL said it is now scaling the concept following positive results. “At DHL, we have created a true beacon project for sustainable logistics with our solar ships in Berlin. We are delighted that we can now transport parcels on a second route,” said Sven Goerke, Head of the Berlin Parcel Branch at DHL. “Our extensive logistics expertise, applied to waterways and combined with solar-powered DHL Packstations, demonstrates how innovative solutions can relieve road traffic in Berlin,” he added.
The logistics model involves trucks delivering parcel containers to a riverside loading point, where shipments are transferred onto the vessel. Along the route, parcels are unloaded at stops such as Rummelsburger Bucht and placed into nearby automated lockers, replacing last-mile delivery trips typically handled by vans.
The newly deployed vessel is larger than its predecessor, with a capacity of up to 1,500 parcels. Measuring 19.5 metres in length and 5.1 metres in width, it is powered by rooftop photovoltaic panels that generate electricity for propulsion and onboard systems. Battery storage enables operation for 12 to 15 hours without sunlight, while solar generation allows for extended operating time under favorable conditions. The ship is equipped with a dual 35-kilowatt drive system and can reach speeds of up to 12 km/h.
The project is supported by the Berlin Senate’s Department for Mobility, Transport, Climate Action and the Environment, alongside the districts of Treptow-Köpenick, Lichtenberg, and Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg. “Our waterways are not only iconic features of the cityscape but also a genuine transport space with significant potential for freight traffic,” said Ute Bonde, Senator for Mobility, Transport, Climate Action and the Environment. “With the launch of the second solar boat route, we are opening a new chapter,” she added.
Project partner Solarwaterworld said the initiative represents a shift in urban freight strategies. “With the launch of ‘Route Two,’ we are reaching the next milestone for a new form of urban logistics in Berlin. We are bringing transport back to the water—emission-free, quiet, and significantly more efficient for the city,” said Tim-Derek Schultze, Board Member at Solarwaterworld.
“We are proud to be part of this innovative development and to actively shape the potential that the capital offers. Our goal is not only to establish this solution but to continuously expand it,” added Louise Ahrens.
DHL said it plans to install additional solar-powered parcel lockers along the route, with approvals for further locations currently underway. The second vessel forms part of the A-Swarm II research project, which includes participation from the Technical University of Berlin and is supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, focusing on autonomous electric shipping in urban environments.
