AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND: DHL Express, the world’s leading express service provider, and Eviation, the Seattle-area based global manufacturer of all-electric aircraft, today write aviation history in announcing that
DHL is the first to order 12 fully electric Alice cargo planes from Eviation. With this engagement DHL aims to set up an
unparalleled electric Express network and make a pioneering step into a sustainable aviation future. Eviation’s Alice is
the world’s leading fully electric aircraft, which enables airlines – both cargo and passenger – to operate a
zero-emission fleet. Eviation expects to deliver the Alice electric aircraft to DHL Express in 2024.
“We firmly believe in a future with zero-emission logistics,” says John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. “Therefore, our
investments always follow the objective of improving our carbon footprint. On our way to clean logistics operations, the
electrification of every transport mode plays a crucial role and will significantly contribute to our overall
sustainability goal of zero emissions. Founded in 1969, DHL Express has been known as a pioneer in the aviation industry
for decades. We have found the perfect partner with Eviation as they share our purpose, and together we will take off
into a new era of sustainable aviation.”
Alice can be flown by a single pilot and will carry 1,200 kilograms (2,600 lbs). It will require 30 minutes or less to
charge per flight hour and have a maximum range of up to 815 kilometers (440 nautical miles). Alice will operate in all
environments currently serviced by piston and turbine aircraft. Alice’s advanced electric motors have fewer moving parts
to increase reliability and reduce maintenance costs. Its operating software constantly monitors flight performance to
ensure optimal efficiency.
“From day one, we set an audacious goal to transform the aviation industry and create a new era with electric aircraft,”
said Eviation CEO Omer Bar-Yohay. “Partnering with companies like DHL who are the leaders in sustainable cargo
transportation is a testament that the electric era is upon us. This announcement is a significant milestone on our
quest to transform the future of flight across the globe.”
The aircraft is ideal for feeder routes and requires less investment in station infrastructure. The Alice can be charged
while loading and unloading operations occur, ensuring quick turnaround times that maintain DHL Express’ tight
schedules.
“My compliments to Eviation on the innovative development of the fully electric Alice aircraft” says Travis Cobb, EVP
Global Network Operations and Aviation for DHL Express. “With Alice’s range and capacity, this is a fantastic
sustainable solution for our global network. Our aspiration is to make a substantial contribution in reducing our carbon
footprint, and these advancements in fleet and technology will go a long way in achieving further carbon reductions. For
us and our customers, this is a very important step in our decarbonization journey and a step forward for the aviation
industry as a whole.”
With innovation, performance and sustainability serving as its North Star, Eviation is creating a new era in aviation
with the all-electric Alice aircraft. Alice has been specifically designed so that it can be configured for cargo or
passengers. Eviation’s Alice all-electric aircraft is on track for its first flight later this year.
“The next time you order an on-demand package, check if it was delivered with a zero-emission aircraft like DHL will be
doing,” said Eviation Executive Chairman Roei Ganzarski. “With on-demand shopping and deliveries on a constant rise,
Alice is enabling DHL to establish a clean, quiet and low-cost operation that will open up greater opportunities for
more communities.”
The decarbonization of its operations is one of the main pillars of DPDHL Group’s new Sustainability roadmap announced
in Q1 2021. The Group is investing a total of 7 billion euros (Opex and Capex) by 2030 in measures to reduce its CO2
emissions. The funds will go in particular towards electrification of last-mile delivery fleet, sustainable aviation
fuels and climate-neutral buildings. On the way to the zero emissions target by 2050, which has already been in place
for four years, the company is committing to new, ambitious interim targets. For example, as part of the renowned
Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi), Deutsche Post DHL Group is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by
2030 in line with the Paris Climate Agreement.