DPD has completed a test for its new electric vehicle – the Terberg YT203-EV electric tug, a fully electric tractor – as the parcel delivery company seeks to further EVs into its fleet.
DPD run a fleet of over 50 tugs to perform all trailer movements across its five centralised sorting hubs in Oldbury, Smethwick and Hinckley, with the company seeking to understand how to further integrate EVs into its HGV fleet.
With performance similar to that of a diesel engine, the YT203-EV offers potential for more sustainable shunting as well as a better working environment for drivers.
The model on test was fitted with 2 x 78kw batteries and comprehensive regenerative braking. Universal charging means the YT203-EV can be charged at standard DC charging stations.
DPD stated that taking real life data from customer’s own vehicles Terberg DTS are able to give a visualisation of how the YT203-EV can work over a 24-hour period using opportune charging.
Director of marketing, communications & sustainability, DPDgroup UK, Tim Jones, said: “Tugs are the lifeblood of our hub operation, performing all trailer movements efficiently and safely across the five sites.
“The electric tug performed incredibly well. Our drivers were really impressed, especially with the ease of use and driver comfort.
“Clearly there are major advantages to the EV version in terms of emissions and the working environment for our drivers, but it was also really good to understand how the vehicles operate in a real-world scenario, including how they can be charged effectively during the day to maximise working hours.”
