DHL orders 12 electric cargo aircraft

DHL Express has ordered 12 Alice eCargo planes from Seattle-based electric aircraft manufacturer Eviation which aims to deliver them in 2024.

Alice’s first flight is scheduled later this year, expected to create a “sea change” in commercial aviation.

“We firmly believe in a future with zero-emission logistics,” DHL Express chief executive John Pearson says.

“Therefore, our investments always follow the objective of improving our carbon footprint. On our way to clean logistics operations, the electrification of every transport mode plays a crucial role and will significantly contribute to our overall sustainability goal of zero emissions.”

Alice can be flown by a single pilot and will carry 1200kg, taking 30 minutes or less to charge per flight hour, and has 815km range.

The e-aircraft will operate in all environments currently serviced by piston and turbine aircraft, DHL says.

Alice’s advanced electric motors have fewer moving parts to increase reliability and reduce maintenance costs. Its operating software constantly monitors flight performance to ensure optimal efficiency.

“From day one, we set an audacious goal to transform the aviation industry and create a new era with electric aircraft,” Eviation chief executive Omer Bar-Yohay says.

“Partnering with companies like DHL who are the leaders in sustainable e-cargo transportation is a testament that the electric era is upon us.”

The aircraft is ideal for feeder routes and requires less investment in station infrastructure.

Alice can be charged while loading and unloading, ensuring quick turnaround times that maintain DHL Express’ tight schedules.

“For us and our customers, this is a very important step in our decarbonisation journey and a step forward for the aviation industry as a whole,” DHL Express global network operations and aviation executive vice president Travis Cobb says.

Alice has been designed to be configured for e-cargo or passengers.

“The next time you order an on-demand package, check if it was delivered with a zero-emission aircraft like DHL will be doing,” Eviation executive chairman Roei Ganzarski says.

“With on-demand shopping and deliveries on a constant rise, Alice is enabling DHL to establish a clean, quiet and low-cost operation that will open up greater opportunities for more communities.”

Deutsche Post DHL Group is investing seven billion euros by 2030 in measures to reduce its CO2 emissions, particularly electrification of last-mile delivery fleet, sustainable aviation fuels and climate-neutral buildings.