Deutsche Post DHL introduces first Teardrop Trailer
Deutsche Post DHL, the world's leading postal and logistics group, further expands its fleet of about 11,500 vehicles with alternative drive systems and aerodynamic modifications. The Group adds one so-called Teardrop trailer for use throughout Germany and France as part of its logistics solutions for its customer Airbus.
The aerodynamic form of this teardrop-shaped trailer designed by Don-Bur features a curved roof which reduces air resistance and cutting fuel consumption by up to 6%-10% compared to regular heavy-load trucks. By adding to its green fleet, Deutsche Post DHL not only acts on its environmental responsibility, but due to a decreased fuel use it saves costs per tour.
“We are working hand in hand with our customers towards greener solutions. Adding this new vehicle for heavy load transport is one example where both of us benefit from the optimized aerodynamic shape and a reduced carbon footprint,” says Tom Jeroense, Global Lead Logistics Provider for Airbus at DHL. “We already have several years of experience using these trailers, mainly in the UK, and they truly live up to their promise.”
Christoph Boré, Head of Transport General Cargo at Airbus, says:” I am very happy today to launch the first Teardrop Trailer for mainland Europe. The Teardrop Trailer is a tailor made solution by DHL for Airbus and will save fuel, costs and carbon emissions. In doing so, the new vehicle underlines the commitment of both DHL and Airbus to implement environmentally friendly and innovative technologies to make road transport greener.”
In the UK, DHL already deploys more than 1.100 Teardrop trailers, which have been further developed and modified over the years. The new trailer is designed specifically for use in mainland Europe to meet European legislation requirements. Key features and benefits include:
- Distinctive curved roof to reduce resistance and increase fuel efficiency
- Forward-swept front bulkhead to reduce turbulence
- New lightweight recyclable blade panels to help reduce fuel consumption
- Unique spoiler feature
- Tailor-made load solution of 10t to accommodate specific transport needs of Airbus
- General payload of up to 40t possible
- Maximum four meter vehicle height in line with European legislation
Deutsche Post DHL has been involved in many alternative drive system projects over the years, including hybrid engines, electric vehicles, both natural gas and biogas vehicles, as well as dual-fuel and aerodynamic modifications. Electric and hybrid vehicles are especially suited for driving in stop-and-go city delivery. In mid-2013, for instance, Deutsche Post DHL began transforming Bonn, where the Group is headquartered, into Germany’s first city with a carbon-free vehicle concept for mail and parcel delivery. For heavy load transport the Group uses hybrid engines, dual-fuel trucks and Teardrop trailers.
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