Deutsche Post DHL introduces Teardrop trailers into mainland Europe

Deutsche Post DHL has introduced the first “Teardrop” trailer into Germany and France, as part of its efforts to cut the environmental impact of its activities. The company is using the Teardrop trailer designed by UK firm Don-Bur, which has a curved roof to make it more aerodynamic, cutting air resistance so that a truck needs slightly less fuel during a journey.

The firm said the teardrop-shaped trailer can cut fuel consumption by 6% to 10% compared to regular heavy-load trucks.

DHL already has 1,100 Teardrop trailers in operation in the UK, but the new version has been specifically designed for use in mainland Europe, complying with European legislation.

The company said it will use the Teardrop trailer throughout Germany and France as it goes about upgrading its fleet of about 11,500 vehicles with aerodynamic modifications and alternative drive systems.

The first Teardrop trailer under the new initiative was launched as part of DHL’s service for customer Airbus.

“Greener”

Tom Jeroense, Global Lead Logistics Provider for Airbus at DHL, said his company was working hand-in-hand with customers to develop greener solutions.

“Adding this new vehicle for heavy load transport is one example where both of us benefit from the optimized aerodynamic shape and a reduced carbon footprint,” he said.

“We already have several years of experience using these trailers, mainly in the UK, and they truly live up to their promise.”

Christoph Boré, Head of Transport General Cargo at Airbus, said: “The Teardrop Trailer is a tailor made solution by DHL for Airbus and will save fuel, costs and carbon emissions. In doing so, the new vehicle underlines the commitment of both DHL and Airbus to implement environmentally friendly and innovative technologies to make road transport greener.”

DHL said the Teardrop trailers have a general payload of 40 tonnes, with a maximum vehicle height of four metres, which is in line with European transport rules.