Two TNT divisions have commenced operational trials in central London with electric-powered 7.5 tonne trucks. The Smith Newtons are based on the Avia (formerly Daewoo) D75, fitted with a 120kW electric motor, four ZEBRA 278V battery packs and regenerative braking systems by Smith Electric Vehicles. Box bodies are from Cartwright with Omnia Busy-Body panels, a plastic honeycomb material said to weigh around 65% of GRP of the equivalent strength.
The TNT Express truck will operate out of Barking, while the example in the Smith’s livery will be operated by TNT Logistics at Basildon on its Starbucks contract, both runs well within the 100 mile-plus range.
At the rather damp launch at London’s Guildhall earlier today, TNT underlined its commitment as a group to operate in a carbon neutral manner, not least to offset the effect of its two new Boeing 747s operating between Europe and China. TNT already sources a considerable amount of its electricity from non-fossil sources and aims to offset use of power from non-renewable sources. Although the capital cost of the Avias is roughly double a diesel-powered vehicle, their overall running costs are claimed to be 2p/mile, around 10% of diesel, and service life is also expected to increase from five to eight years. There are also incidental fiscal benefits such as Congestion Çharge exemption.
A brief ride around the City of London revealed a very quiet ride and sprightly acceleration.. Driving controls could hardly be simpler, a forward/reverse joystick and a knob to disengage regenerative braking. Just press the pedal and go. The trucks will be limited to just 40mph in service. Subject to the trials proceeding satisfactorily, both TNT divisions expect to be operating 200 examples each within two years.