UPS is to test a fleet of new electric trucks in London that can travel almost 150 miles on a single charge and include special driver assistance tools to improve safety.
The logistics firm is linking up with British outfit Arrival, the company behind the electric vans which has already worked with Royal Mail, and will launch 35 of the vehicles onto the streets of London and Paris.
The electric vans are emission-free and have a battery life capable of running up to around 150 miles on one charge. They also contain what UPS calls driver assistance systems that enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue.
The new vans are smaller, more curved versions of the company’s classic delivery vehicles.
The future of delivery transportation is here. We're pleased to announce we will be road testing #electricvehicles in London & Paris in an exciting new partnership with @ArrivalGB. You can find out more here: https://t.co/muys2xZVaZ pic.twitter.com/q7BnGIKfqm
— UPS UK&IE (@UPS_UK) May 9, 2018
UPS and Arrival have been working on prototypes since 2016, but now say with the design in place they hope to have the trucks on the road before the end of the year.
UPS European director of sustainability Peter Harris said reducing carbon emissions was a key factor for the company in the development of the technology.
“This initiative will help UPS achieve the company’s overall carbon reduction targets for its facilities and fleets,” he said.
“We will continue to work with our partners, local communities and customers to drive innovation, and so lead the industry towards a more sustainable future.”
