Australia Post launches largest electric van trial

Australia Post has stepped up its fleet electrification with the launch of a new electric van pilot, rolling out 36 Mercedes-Benz eVito vans across its delivery network.

It is the first time the postal service has trialled electric vans at this scale. The vans will be deployed in metro areas where their stop-start efficiency is suited to busy delivery routes.

The eVito vehicles, which produce zero tailpipe emissions, will be powered by 100 per cent renewable electricity through Australia Post’s charging infrastructure.

The pilot supports the organisation’s commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050 and adds to its fleet of more than 5,000 electric vehicles already in operation.

Australia Post chief sustainability officer Richard Pittard says the initiative reflects growing demand for more sustainable operations.

“The introduction of electric vans is an important milestone in our fleet electrification and decarbonisation strategy. With more Australians shopping online than ever before, we’re delivering more parcels every day and we know we need to find more sustainable ways to do it.

“This is our largest electric van trial to date. It’s a meaningful step forward as we continue building a modern, sustainable delivery network that meets the evolving needs of our customers while reducing our environmental impact,” Pittard says.

The rollout will continue in the coming months, with Australia Post working alongside Mercedes-Benz to train staff and support the transition to electric vehicles.

The pilot forms part of Australia Post’s wider programme to transform its operations and support long-term environmental goals.