DSV Air & Sea, a prominent player in the transport and logistics sector, is embarking on a significant transition towards zero emission vehicles to drive the decarbonization of its services in Singapore. Building upon the success of utilizing an electric Volvo truck for last mile deliveries in European markets, this move underscores DSV’s commitment to sustainability and marks the initial step toward a larger, more sustainable future.
Gino Marzola, managing director of DSV Air & Sea Singapore & Malaysia, highlighted the company’s dedication to reducing CO2 emissions and embracing environmentally friendly practices in its operations. “DSV is deeply committed to curbing carbon emissions in our day-to-day business operations. We’re focused on delivering comprehensive, eco-conscious services that lower costs, CO2 emissions, and establish sustainable supply chains for the long haul.
“Transitioning to alternative vehicles like the Volvo FL Electric truck, instead of traditional diesel-powered ones, can significantly shrink our carbon footprint. Yet, this endeavor requires more than just financial investment. To achieve our climate objectives, fostering collaboration with energy suppliers and industry leaders like Volvo Trucks is pivotal. Effective infrastructure must be in place, and society as a whole needs to come together.”
The forthcoming acquisition comprises one Volvo FL Electric Truck, designated for urban package deliveries. Navigating city distribution poses a range of challenges, from heavy traffic to confined spaces and frequent stops. The Volvo FL is tailor-made for efficiently transporting goods to their destinations, offering speed and safety as its hallmark traits. Crafted and optimized for urban settings, this truck boasts productivity, visibility, maneuverability, and safety.
Anna Engblom, managing director for Southeast Asia & Japan at Volvo Trucks, emphasized the opportune moment for electric truck introduction in Singapore. “This is the perfect time to launch electric trucks in Singapore. As a market leader, we bear a significant responsibility in curbing CO2 emissions within our sector and paving the path towards transportation electrification. Collaborating with our clients is our way of achieving industry-wide decarbonization.
“Our goal is for 50% of our new global truck sales to be electric by 2030, and for all trucks to be net-zero emissions by 2040. In Europe and beyond, many clients have already embraced electric vehicles, and this trend will only gain momentum. Governments also play a pivotal role in influencing the speed of electric transition. Forward-thinking governments are driving change through financial incentives, targeted tariffs, and environmental zones to expedite the adoption of electric solutions.”
The vehicle is accompanied by service and support packages encompassing charging solutions, route and range planning, battery monitoring, and more. These offerings aim to streamline the transition to electric mobility and make the process smoother for adopters.
Joseph Heng, general manager of UD Trucks Singapore, expressed enthusiasm about introducing the inaugural Volvo FL Electric to the Singapore market by early 2024. He also emphasized the comprehensive preparations underway, including training, parts provisioning, tools, and equipment setup to ensure the company’s readiness for Volvo EV integration.
He said: “We’re collaborating closely with local partners to establish a robust charging infrastructure and a comprehensive ‘Gold Service Agreement’ package that complements the FL Electric’s capabilities. This ensures DSV can seamlessly integrate electric trucks into their fleet, maintaining operational efficiency while embarking on this electric vehicle journey.”
