Interesting to read over at dcvelocity.com that both UPS and DHL are moving ahead with significant hybrid fleet trials. UPS is looking at what is claimed to be the first hydraulic hybrid diesel urban delivery truck, billed as the world's most fuel-efficient and cost-effective delivery vehicle. This was developed through a partnership between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Army, UPS, International Truck and Engine Corp. and Eaton Corp.
DHL, on the other hand, has been using a veritable panoply of low emissions machinery. It launched its "Green Logistics" environmental initiative in Japan earlier this year, with the net result that DHL’s Japanese drivers find themselves at the wheel of anything from the new Fuso Canter Hybrid, through to a fuel cell-powered Mercedes A Class through to – a bicycle. Hybrids were a big deal at this year's IAA. Big fleet interest may yet serve to drive their acceptance within Europe.
Meanwhile, wbcsd.com reports that Shell and Total are to create a joint scheme for a European hydrogen infrastructure. The two oil giants are to be joined in this endeavour by BMW, DaimlerChrysler AG, Ford, GM, MAN, and VW. Whilst we believe that there are a lot of myths out there pertaining to the ability to hydrogen to save us all - the current thinking - this initiative at least suggests some thinking beyond oil.