Parcel delivery company, DPD has announced that testing of its Terberg YT203-EV electric tug has been a success after being put through its paces by DPD drivers at its giant Oldbury hub.
DPD run a fleet of over 50 tugs to perform all trailer movements across its five centralised sorting hubs in Oldbury, Smethwick and Hinckley.
The company is keen to understand how the electric vehicle could help as part of the move to a more sustainable HGV fleet in the lon
ger term.
Located in Benschop, Holland, the Royal Terberg Group specialises in the development, production and modification of special transport vehicles and systems for port terminals, logistics and waste collection.
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.
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.
Tim Jones, Director of Marketing, Communications & Sustainability, DPD Group UK 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.”
Peter Giles, Head of UK Logistics Sales, Terberg DTS added: “We know just how versatile and effective the vehicle is, but every operation is slightly different and working on-site with their own drivers means DPD can get really meaningful feedback from those who know the job better than anyone.”