DP World Begins Deployment of Electric Trucks at Jebel Ali Port

DP World has taken delivery of its first electric trucks at Jebel Ali Port, marking the initial phase of a fleet electrification project in partnership with Swedish freight technology company Einride. The initiative aims to deploy 100 connected electric trucks by 2026 as part of DP World’s broader decarbonization strategy.

While the exact number of trucks in the initial batch has not been disclosed, DP World stated that the first wave of electric trucks will transport over 204,000 twenty-foot containers annually. The second phase of deliveries is scheduled for later this year, with the full fleet projected to move up to 2 million twenty-foot containers per year once fully operational.

The collaboration between DP World and Einride was first announced in May 2024, with the goal of reducing carbon emissions by 14,600 tonnes. The project incorporates Einride’s Saga digital operating system, which optimizes electric and autonomous freight transport through data-driven analysis. While initial plans included a pilot for autonomous truck operations, it remains unclear if those trials will proceed as originally scheduled. However, DP World emphasized that the phased deployment strategy is designed to enhance cost efficiency while preparing for future autonomous logistics solutions.

“This marks the first of many milestones as we set out to have the largest deployment of electric, autonomous freight mobility in the Middle East,” said Robert Falck, CEO and Founder of Einride. “The UAE is uniquely positioned to lead this sustainable transition given its forward-thinking approach to innovation, and we are proud to drive this in partnership with DP World.”

DP World GCC CEO and Managing Director Abdulla Bin Damithan reiterated the company’s commitment to sustainability. “Decarbonising logistics is a core priority for DP World. We are actively electrifying our operations, integrating AI-powered solutions and working closely with our partners like Einride to support our net zero goals,” he said.

Jebel Ali, the world’s tenth-largest port, plays a critical role in global trade. The UAE aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, positioning projects such as this electrification initiative as key components of the country’s broader climate strategy.