The project is supported by the German Federal Environment Ministry, and once complete the fleet will be targeting a 500 tonne reduction in CO2 emissions per year across the company’s delivery vehicles. Deutsche Post DHL is aiming for a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2020, compared to 2007.

To date, the company has tried a number of alternative drivetrains, including hybrids, natural gas and biogas, dual fuel and aerodynamic modifications on its delivery fleet.

Vehicles to be deployed in Bonn include 20 examples of the company’s own EV, co-developed with StreetScooter and RWTH Aachen University, which offers an 50-mile range on a delivery cycle. A further 30 of these will be used across Germany starting this summer.

Frank Appel CEO of Deutsche Post DHL said: ‘This pilot project is unique worldwide and can serve as a role model for other cities and regions.

‘As the world's leading logistics company, we operate one of the world's largest vehicle fleets. And because we see the effects of global trade on the environment, we accept responsibility. Alternative drive systems have already been in use in our fleet for years. With about 8,500 vehicles with environmentally friendly drive systems across our operations, we have one of the most efficient fleets in the sector.’