DHL Express and Eviation, the Seattle-area based global manufacturer of all-electric aircraft, see DHL become the first to order 12 fully electric Alice eCargo planes from Eviation. The Alice is the world’s leading fully electric aircraft, which enables cargo airlines to operate a zero-emission fleet. Eviation expects to deliver the first in 2024.
“We firmly believe in a future with zero-emission logistics,” says John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. “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 1,200 kg. It will require under 30 minutes to charge per flight hour and have a maximum range of up to 815 km (440 nautical miles). Alice will operate in all environments currently serviced by piston and turbine aircraft.
“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, ensuring quick turnaround times that maintain DHL Express’ tight schedules.
Important step
“My compliments to Eviation on the innovative development of the fully electric Alice aircraft” says Travis Cobb, EVP global network operations and aviation for DHL Express. “With Alice’s range and capacity, this is a fantastic sustainable solution for our global network. Our aspiration is to make a substantial contribution in reducing our carbon footprint, and these advancements in fleet and technology will go a long way in achieving further carbon reductions. 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.”
Deutsche Post DHL Group is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 in line with the Paris Climate Agreement.
