Hermes and Mercedes-Benz partnering to electrify delivery fleet
Hermes has agreed a “wide-ranging strategic partnership” with Mercedes-Benz Vans to electrify its fleet of delivery vehicles. In a statement issued yesterday (28 March), the Daimler group said that the companies will start using battery-electric vehicles in a “pilot phase” in Stuttgart and Hamburg in early 2018.
“The focus will be on the economy, sustainability and practicality of emission-free delivery vans when used for the last mile,” said Daimler.
“By the end of 2020, Hermes Germany intends to deploy 1500 Mercedes-Benz Vito and Sprinter electric vans in urban areas across Germany.”
“Electric drive is a key technology for urban transport – especially in commercial use. Last-mile deliveries must become more efficient and – in specific applications – emission-free,” said Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans.
Frank Rausch, CEO of Hermes Germany, added: “Electric mobility plays a key role as part of our long-term strategy for climate and environmental protection. With this in mind, we are continuing along the path of sustainably renewing our fleet of vehicles. The strategic partnership with Mercedes-Benz is another milestone in this process. We are especially pleased to have Mercedes-Benz at our side as a prestigious partner since 1972. An important key aspect for the future is the gradual electrification of our fleet in urban areas. At the same time, we are continuing with the full changeover to low-emission Euro 6 vehicles.”
By the year 2025, Hermes plans to carry out deliveries in the inner-city areas of all major German cities “completely free of emissions”.
