Dutch postal company TNT NV yesterday launched a long, six-months trial of China's first electric delivery vans in Wuhan. Two light electric trucks were delivered by Dongfeng Motor Co., the third biggest Chinese carmaker and the leader of utility vehicles. The vehicles are designed to run at most 80 kilometers per hour and 160km to 200km once fully charged. They are capable of carrying a load of 1,000 kg.

Both companies plan to expand such activity in other cities. “"The trial launch of China's first two electric delivery vans is significant. It will be the first market outside of Europe that TNT is bringing this trial, which will reduce CO2 emissions from our own delivery fleet.", TNT's CEO Peter Bakker said at the launch ceremony.

The initiative is a long-term part of TNT's strategy. The Dutch company wants to become the first zero-emission road and air transport company. The companies are expecting policy and funding support from the government. Each model cost 42,860 USD. Currently, there are no regulation, encouraging to use electric vehicles.

TNT already runs several electric vehicles in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg. TNT successfully tested an electric truck in London and is considering adding 50 more to its UK fleet.

Source: Shanghai Daily