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51
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51 (146) 2021

Green for Glasgow, Green for Good

DHL powers up its offering for electric-vehicle logistics

By DHL
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With increasing numbers of electric vehicles (EVs) on our roads, new demand is growing for battery logistics – the transportation and storage of the batteries used to power EVs. This requires different processes and infrastructure to that used in the fossil-fuel powered automotive supply chain.

A new initiative – DHL EV TV – is intended to help DHL’s clients prepare for the change in automotive logistics, as DHL applies its expertise to EV supply chains. Deutsche Post DHL Group will invest €7 billion in climate-neutral logistics by 2030 as part of its Sustainability Roadmap.

Responding to the increasing business and public demand for information about electric vehicles, Deutsche Post DHL Group, the world’s leading logistics company, has launched its DHL EV TV initiative. Based around a series of 12 TV programmes supported by webinars and podcasts, it  underlines the group’s significant expertise in battery logistics. This is demonstrated by the development of the StreetScooter and its engagement in Formula E electric-car racing. The material will be made available on a newly established DHL EV TV hub as well as a range of social media channels. By sharing insights and research, the experts of DHL Team EV help prepare for the change in production and transportation that new technology will bring. The initiative is part of DHL’s commitment to strengthen its portfolio dedicated to EV logistics and in line with Deutsche Post DHL Group’s increased pace to decarbonise the company. To this end, the group is investing a total of €7 billion over the next ten years in measures to reduce its CO2 emissions, which includes the expansion of its zero-emission e-vehicle fleet.

“The auto-mobility industry is currently undergoing drastic changes. With increasing demand for electric vehicles, logistics companies must also adapt their offerings. With our EV TV programme, we are able to give our customers a better understanding of the industry and our solutions,” says Fathi Tlatli, president, Global Auto-Mobility, DHL Customer Solutions & Innovation. “We are not just a service provider, but a reliable partner with strong expertise that addresses the logistics challenges of today and tomorrow – and offers innovative solutions along the entire supply chain.”

Deutsche Post DHL Group combines expertise with regards to storing EV batteries, as well as transporting them via air, ocean and road freight. With insight and experience in all areas of electric mobility, Team EV can also support customers with the set-up and evolution of resilient and efficient EV supply chains. The DHL EV team is a reliable partner for automotive manufacturers and their suppliers.

The EV batter offering ranges from implementing processes to ensure accuracy and speed of clearance as well as an integrated transport solution providing compliant coverage across several countries to return-and-replace programmes for batteries including dealer support, to reduce complexity within the supply chain. It takes care of end-customer support and might act as single point of contact for all aftermarket battery flows, helping to enhance the efficiency of battery inventory management. Clients do not necessarily need to invest in their own infrastructure. With access to DHL’s worldwide network, logistics of batteries and electronic vehicles can be redesigned to be more flexible and agile.

The expected growth in electric mobility will affect the sector in many aspects. The market for EV batteries is supposed to increase significantly in the future. According to data from Frost & Sullivan, by 2025 electric vehicles will account for 16% of car sales worldwide. This will reconfigure the supply chain of OEMs producing battery cells and battery packs, and will also affect after-market service, particularly in providing a second life to batteries after their first use.

Throughout the series of DHL EV TV programmes, Team EV will look at the entire value chain that’s essential to making the EV revolution happen – from energy production to vehicle driving-range, from storage to battery safety. Experts from many backgrounds around the world share their enthusiasm and knowledge of EV technology with Team EV.

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DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With about 400,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.

DHL is part of Deutsche Post DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of more than 66 billion euros in 2020. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. Deutsche Post DHL Group aims to achieve zero-emissions logistics by 2050.

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