DHL’s Saloodo! Launches Electric Trucks in the UAE

The fully electric 40-ton Mercedes-Benz eActros 300 Tractor is particularly suitable for heavy-duty distribution transport and compatible with all common semitrailers. Exclusively used by Saloodo!, the truck will contribute to reduce carbon emissions in line with DHL’s ambition to achieve net zero carbon emissions by the year 2050.

Saloodo! began investigating sustainable road freight solutions within the MEA region towards the end of last year. After shortlisting the options suitable for the region’s harsh climate and several rounds of negotiations with key manufacturers, the Mercedes-Benz eActros 300 from Daimler Commercial Vehicles MENA and Emirates Motor Company – Commercial Vehicles was chosen as its first electric truck in the UAE and MEA region.

Tobias Maier, CEO Saloodo! MEA, said: “As we march towards our goal of zero carbon emissions by 2050, DHL remains committed to serving our customers with smart digital solutions that improve sustainability and efficiency.

“Our investment in the UAE’s first electric truck is another step to pioneer innovative solutions which help us achieve our ambitious sustainability goals and create unique solutions for our valued customers. We are proud to put vision into practice.”

Kay-Wolf Ahlden, President & CEO of Daimler Commercial Vehicles MENA, added: “As the first truck customer in the MENA Region to embrace our Mercedes-Benz eActros 300 Tractor, DHL sets a powerful example in the realm of zero-emission transportation solutions.

“This fully electric marvel, equipped with our cutting-edge eAxle technology and two integrated electric motors, delivers both power and efficiency. With a remarkable gross combination weight of up to 40 tons, it proves that heavy-duty distribution transport can be environmentally friendly without compromising performance.”

DHL and Al Safa Transport

As an asset-light organisation, DHL has not purchased or leased the electric truck directly but has partnered with long-term partner Al Safa Transport in the UAE, who purchased the electric truck on behalf of DHL. The truck will be utilised, for instance, for DHL’s sustainable multi-modal cooperation with Etihad Rail and provides an end-to-end sustainable and CO2-efficient logistics solution for customers.

DHL rolled out its digital road freight solution platform, Saloodo!, in the Middle East and Africa, to inject greater transparency, real-time visibility and efficiency into regional road networks. The digital platform connects shippers and transport providers for road freight needs.