DPD and Electric Assisted Vehicles Limited (EAV) have launched a sustainable initiative that will see parcels delivered by the new Project 1 (P1) e-cargo bike in July 2019.
Launched at the eBike Summit in Oxford, UK on April 10, the new P1 scheme focuses on neutralizing DPD’s carbon footprint through the use of e-cargo bikes in the UK.
According to DPD, the P1 project is a continuation of its push for sustainable operations and follows the introduction of all-electric parcel deports in Westminster, London, in October 2018. The new depot will see an initial reduction of 45 metric tons of CO2 per annum – which will increase as more all-electric vehicles and depots are introduced.
Dwain McDonald, CEO, DPD, commented, “EAV is an incredibly innovative company and it has been fantastic to work alongside a British manufacturer to create such a highly customizable solution. Our aim is to be the most responsible city center delivery company, which means neutralizing our carbon footprint and developing smarter, cleaner and more sustainable parcel delivery services. Not only does the P1 look amazing, but it is also incredibly smart, flexible and future-proofed. As a result, the P1 is perfect for UK city centers and we are really looking forward to adding it to our rapidly expanding zero-emission fleet in July.”
Adam Barmby, founder and technical director, EAV, added, “We would like to re-educate the population on common sense vehicle design and intelligent methods of mobility that deliver a sense of purpose and place for urban populations. We’re already thinking about how we can extend the technology for other uses. For example, the chassis design is modular, so we can extend, widen, or shorten the P1 for multiple applications. Full weather protection is also in development for year-round use in almost any climate or city location worldwide. Part of our business model is to make the P1 a rentable vehicle for the gig economy with an app operation for entrepreneurs so they can use it for their own businesses. We’re also looking at the P1 concept’s ability to carry passengers and we’re keen to work with the Department for Transport and Transport for London in order to evolve the regulations for this zero-emissions solution for future urban mobility.”
