DHL Express shapes future for sustainable aviation with all-electric cargo planes from Eviation

• Both companies take off together to electrify airspace
• 12 zero-emission eCargo aircraft will form world’s first electric Express network
• First-ever fully electric plane ‘Alice’ creates landmark change in commercial aviation
• Alice’s first flight scheduled for later this year

DHL Express, the world’s leading express service provider, and Eviation, the Seattle-area based global manufacturer of all-electric aircraft, wrote aviation history in announcing that DHL is the first to order 12 fully electric Alice eCargo planes from Eviation. 

With this engagement DHL aims to set up an unparalleled electric Express network and take a pioneering step towards a sustainable aviation future. Eviation’s Alice is the world’s leading fully electric aircraft, which enables airlines – both cargo and passenger – to operate a zero-emission fleet. Eviation expects to deliver the Alice electric aircraft to DHL Express in 2024.

“We firmly believe in a future with zero-emission logistics,” says DHL Express CEO John Pearson. “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. Founded in 1969, DHL Express has been known as a pioneer in the aviation industry for decades. We have found the perfect partner with Eviation as they share our purpose, and together we will take off into a new era of sustainable aviation.”

Alice can be flown by a single pilot and will carry 1,200 kilograms (2,600 lbs). It will require 30 minutes or less to charge per flight hour and have a maximum range of up to 815 kilometres (440 nautical miles). Alice will operate in all environments currently serviced by piston and turbine aircraft. 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,” said Eviation CEO Omer Bar-Yohay. “Partnering with companies like DHL who are the leaders in sustainable e-cargo transportation is a testament that the electric era is upon us. This announcement is a significant milestone on our quest to transform the future of flight across the globe.” 

The aircraft is ideal for feeder routes and requires less investment in station infrastructure. The Alice can be charged while loading and unloading operations occur, ensuring quick turnaround times that maintain DHL Express’ tight schedules. 

“Using all-electric cargo planes is a huge step towards building a greener logistics industry. We are proud to make this commitment, and be a part of this sustainable aviation movement. With more organisations in Sri Lanka pushing hard on their sustainability efforts, I am excited that DHL Express is taking the lead in the industry and be in a position to inspire more players to improve their carbon footprint,” added DHL Express Sri Lanka Country Manager Dimithri Perera.   

Deutsche Post DHL Group’s zero emissions target by 2050 has already been in place for four years. With the company committing to new, ambitious interim targets, decarbonisation of its operations is one of the main pillars of DPDHL Group’s new Sustainability roadmap announced in Q1 2021. The Group is investing a total of 7 billion euros by 2030 in measures to reduce its CO2 emissions. Funding is in particular towards electrification of last-mile delivery fleet, sustainable aviation fuels and climate-neutral buildings.