Deutsche Post DHL Group is trialling particulate filters on StreetScooter test vans, said to create the first emissions-neutral vehicle.

Deutsche Post DHL Group is trialling particulate filters on StreetScooter test vans

The postal service and courier group already runs more than 5,000 delivery vehicles from EV manufacturer StreetScooter – acquired by Deutsche Post in 2014 – but says that such vehicles are not currently emission free and release particulates into the atmosphere due to tyre, brake, and road abrasion.

In response, the firm is trialling a new particulate filter developed by filtration specialist MANN+HUMMEL on five StreetScooter test vehicles to ensure any harmful gases, such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide and also noise, do not enter the environment.

The vehicles are already on trial in five German cities, fitted to the underbody to target the highest concentration of particulates as well as ensuring loading space isn’t constrained.

The results are being distributed via the cloud via onboard sensors and, pending a successful conclusion, could lead to the series implementation of the particulate filter.

Alfred Weber, CEO at MANN+HUMMEL, said: “The coming together of the biggest logistics provider, the biggest producer of electric commercial vehicles in Germany and the global filtration expert has made driving and delivery operations possible in city centres which is neutral in terms of emissions.”