When it comes to zero-emissions vehicles, Nissan has delivered the perfect package to international logistics supplier DPD, with a new order for 300 all-electric e-NV200 vans for its UK operations.
DPD is one of the UK's largest logistics companies, delivering over 250 million parcels every year. The all-electric, zero-emissions e-NV200s supplied by Nissan will help DPD advance its ambition to be the most responsible city centre delivery provider and the leader in electric vehicles usage in the UK, with 10% of its delivery fleet to be fully electric by the end of 2020.
The order will triple the DPD's current EV tally to 450, growing on the 91 Nissan e-NV200s the company has used for the past 18 months. The partnership strengthens the Nissan e-NV200's status as a class-leading last-mile delivery vehicle, with a 40 kWh battery and other hardware shared with the world's best-selling electric car, the Nissan LEAF. The e-NV200 can deliver range of up to 301 km on a City cycle*, according to the new Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).
The e-NV200 can deliver more than just a long range, though. Its compact battery design allows the vehicle to transport two Euro pallets up to 701 kg with ease. Loading is easy, thanks to a cargo floor just 52 cm above the ground, accessed by wide-opening rear or sliding side doors.
As with all Nissan electric vehicles, the e-NV200 is near-silent in operation and offers a quiet and relaxing drive, reducing stress and pollution of noise for drivers and passers-by. Being 100% electric also means the new vans will be able to access current and proposed Low and Zero Emissions Zones in cities.
At the forefront of Nissan's Intelligent Mobility philosophy, the e-NV200 offers a comprehensive suite of technology and connectivity features that complement the efficient driving experience. The NissanConnect infotainment system features an upgraded navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity and advanced telematics which help drivers and managers ensure the vehicles are being used efficiently.
Soufiane Elkhomri, Light Commercial Vehicles General Manager for Nissan Europe, said: "As a model for Nissan Intelligent Mobility, the e-NV200 exemplifies Nissan's commitment to building a more sustainable society. Supporting DPD in working towards carbon-neutral delivery with the e-NV200 marks a significant step towards achieving our goals."
"Transitioning to zero-emissions fleets is a key avenue for businesses to optimise the efficiency of their day-to-day operations and reaffirm their commitment to sustainable practices, which are more crucial now than ever before. We are looking forward to extending the positive impact of the e-NV200 and encouraging more businesses to turn to EVs as a sustainable, efficient and practical mobility solution," he added.
Dwain McDonald, DPD's CEO, commented: "This is a real landmark day in the move to a more sustainable future for the parcel industry. These vehicles are changing the way we work. It isn't just a case of plugging them in and saying, 'job done'.
"We are rethinking and re-engineering how we deliver parcels now and in the future with different route networks and new types of depots. It is an all-encompassing revolution for our industry and electric, emission-free vehicles are at the heart of that vision."
The e-NV200 has been a sales success throughout Europe since its introduction in 2014, achieving over 30,000 sales throughout the Continent.