UK independent parcel carrier Yodel has invested £14.5m (US$18.4m) in 45 new tractor units and 120 double-decker trailers, increasing its capacity to manage growing demand and improving efficiency as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability. The company already invested over £1m (US$1.27m) in 15 new tractor units earlier in this financial year.
According to the company, the 45 new DAF 450 XF tractor units have up to 12% greater fuel efficiency than alternatives, supporting Yodel’s efforts to provide a more sustainable delivery service to clients and consumers. To improve safety and fuel efficiency, the new vehicles feature a windshield that is 33% larger than previous models and updated cameras around the cabin to provide a wider field of vision for drivers – cameras are a more aerodynamic option than traditional mirrors. Other safety features include a menu system that limits access while the vehicle is on the move to minimize distractions, and GPS-guided predictive cruise control.
Each of the new units will be fitted with Microlise’s Android-based DriveTab tablet devices to help reduce overall mileage. Smart Drive cameras will also be installed to enable the company to monitor driver performance.
The new tractor units will be rolled out across Yodel’s nationwide network by a dedicated team of driver trainers, who will utilize the Smart Drive cameras to support Yodel’s HGV drivers with the updated features on the new units.
The 120 new double-decker trailer units are fitted with solar panels that enable the decks to be moved when loading and unloading without needing access to an external power supply. This improves the vehicles’ self-sufficiency and reduces Yodel’s energy consumption.
The company has already taken receipt of the first two trailers, with a further eight due in the next few weeks. The remaining trailers are due to be delivered from July 2023 with the full complement joining the fleet by the end of the year.
Yodel COO Carl Moore said, “This investment further improves our ability to manage the rapidly increasing demand we have seen over the last year. Continued investment across the business, in fleet and our warehouse space, is reflective of an incredible period of growth and we’re pleased to be continuing along this trajectory.”
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