FedEx
Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. and the world’s largest express
transportation company, announced the start of electric vehicle (EV) trials in
India as part of its global goal to achieve carbon neutral operations by 2040.
The
trial of the electric vehicle, which is expected to conclude in a month in
Bangalore, will test the vehicle technology within FedEx Express operations,
assessing the vehicles’ operational effectiveness on a standard route fully
loaded with packages. Following positive trial results, FedEx Express will
extend the trial to Delhi.
With
last-mile delivery burgeoning thanks to rapid e-commerce growth, each new
electric vehicle added to the FedEx delivery fleet in India can reduce fuel
consumption and emissions equivalent to five passenger cars.
Mohamad
Sayegh, Vice President, India Operations for FedEx Express said, “FedEx has a
mission to connect the world responsibly and resourcefully, and I’m incredibly
pleased to announce the launch of our electric vehicle trial in India, which is
in line with our global goal to achieve carbon neutral operations by 2040.”
“With
the growth ofe-commerce in India, we’re constantly looking for ways to support
this momentum while reducing environmental impact. The commencement of EV
trials brings us one step closer to this vision,” he added.
Vehicle
electrification is one of the key areas in FedEx’s journey toward reaching its
carbon neutral operations goal. By 2040, it is intended that the entire FedEx
global parcel pickup and delivery (PUD) fleet will be zero-emission electric
vehicles. This vehicle electrification goal is being approached through phased
programs to replace existing vehicles. The aim is for 50% of FedEx Express
global PUD vehicle purchases to be electric vehicles by 2025, rising to 100% by
2030.
“The
trial is a critical part of the integration of electric vehicle technology
across our operations. Finding the right technology to serve our business, our
customers, and our team members will play a key role in the successful
integration of electric vehicles into the FedEx Express fleet,” Sayegh said.
The
shift to electric vehicles also aligns with the FedEx commitment to enhance its
services and solutions in India, offering customers connectivity and access to
global markets, while helping safeguard the health of our planet.