Deutsche Post DHL is expanding its fleet by approximately 11,500 vehicles with alternative drive systems and aerodynamic modifications. The Group has added a so-called Teardrop trailer to its fleet, which will be used in Germany and France as part of the logistics solutions offered to its client, the Airbus Group.
The aerodynamic shape of this teardrop-shaped trailer, created by Don-Bur, visible among other things in the curved roof line, allows for reduced air resistance and fuel consumption savings of 6 to 10 percent compared to standard heavy-duty trucks. Thanks to this addition to its fleet of eco-friendly vehicles, Deutsche Post DHL is not only fulfilling its environmental commitments but is also saving on travel costs due to reduced fuel consumption.
– We work closely with our customers to develop more environmentally friendly solutions. Adding this new vehicle for heavy load transport is one example of how both parties can benefit from the optimized aerodynamic shape and reduced carbon footprint – says Tom Jeroense, Global Head of Logistics Services for Airbus at DHL. – We already have many years of experience using these trailers, mainly in the UK, and they are indeed living up to expectations.
– I am very pleased to witness today the introduction of the first Teardrop trailer for transport in continental Europe. The Teardrop trailer is a solution custom-made for the Airbus Group, which will save fuel, reduce costs, and lower carbon dioxide emissions. As such, the new vehicles are a testament to the commitment of both DHL and Airbus to implementing environmentally friendly and innovative technologies that will make road transport greener – says Christoph Boré, Head of Cargo at Airbus.
In the UK, DHL already uses over 1,100 Teardrop trailers, which have been developed and modified over the years. The new trailer was developed specifically for use in continental Europe to meet European legal requirements. Key features and benefits include:
- A distinctive curved roof that reduces air resistance and increases energy efficiency
- A front bulkhead extended forward, which helps reduce turbulence
- New lightweight paneling made from recyclable materials to reduce fuel consumption
- A unique spoiler
- A custom solution for loads up to 10 tons, allowing for the specific transport needs of Airbus to be met
- A possible gross vehicle weight of up to 40 tons
- A maximum vehicle height of four meters, compliant with European regulations
For years, Deutsche Post DHL has been involved in numerous alternative powertrain projects, including hybrid engines, electric vehicles, vehicles powered by natural gas and biogas, as well as dual-fuel engines and aerodynamic modifications. Electric and hybrid vehicles are particularly suitable for urban deliveries. For example, in mid-2013, Deutsche Post DHL began transforming Bonn, where the Group is headquartered, into the first city in Germany with a carbon-neutral vehicle concept for mail and parcel delivery. For heavy load transport, the Group uses hybrid engines, dual-fuel trucks, and Teardrop trailers.