DHL Supply Chain Thailand is deploying electric heavy vehicles following a new agreement with leading grocery retailer, Big C Supercenter.
In a joint effort to drive a greener supply chain, the deployment of electric trucks will distribute product from the Big C Wangnoi distribution centre (DC) to Big C branches in Bangkok as an initial stage.
In the near future, other types of electric trucks are being considered for the fleet to transport Big C products to stores in various locations.
DHL Supply Chain Thailand Cluster CEO, Steve Walker, said the company was pleased to join Big C as it has shared values and visions for protecting the planet and improving people’s lives.
“DHL Supply Chain aspires to be a leader and is committed to being a responsible logistics partner in creating a sustainable future in the region,” he said.
“We have been supporting Big C for the past 20 years and currently deliver their products to over 1,800 stores nationwide.
“We hope to help them advance their supply chain operations by providing clean, green, and safe solutions to achieve environmental sustainability goals.”
Big C CEO and President, Aswin Techajareonvikul, said the partnership between DHL Supply Chain Thailand and Big C is centred on a mutual goal to reduce carbon footprint.
“This year, Big C has joined forces with DHL Supply Chain Thailand to have electric vehicles (EV) to transport and distribute goods to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions and to focus on becoming a green logistics organisation,” he said.
“Big C will pilot the use of electric trucks to transport and distribute goods at three Big C branches in Bangkok, namely Big C Saphan Khwai, Big C Ratchada, and Big C Ratchadamri.
“We plan to expand routes and increase the number of vehicles in the long term in Bangkok and other provinces.”
The electric trucks will be managed by the DHL Connected Control Tower, which utilises advanced technologies such as the Paragon Route Optimization System, Transport Management System, Telematics, and the MySupplyChain digital platform to maximise transport efficiency.