European parcel delivery firm DPD has tested the YT203-EV electric tug from Dutch firm Terburg at its hub in Oldbury, UK.

DPD runs a fleet of more than 50 tugs to perform all trailer movements across its five centralized sorting hubs in Oldbury, Smethwick and Hinckley in the UK. The company is keen to understand how the electric vehicle could help as part of a move to a more sustainable HGV fleet in the longer term.

The model tested was fitted with two 78 kWh batteries and comprehensive regenerative braking. The YT203-EV can be charged at standard DC charging stations.

The Royal Terberg Group specializes in the development, production and modification of special transport vehicles and systems for port terminals, logistics and waste collection. The YT203-EV offers performance similar to that of a diesel engine, while delivering the potential for more sustainable shunting as well as a better working environment for drivers, according to the company.

“Clearly there are major advantages to the EV version in terms of emissions and the working environment for our drivers, but it was also really good to understand how the vehicles operate in a real-world scenario, including how they can be charged effectively during the day to maximise working hours,” said Tim Jones, Director of Marketing, Communications & Sustainability at DPDgroup UK.

Source: DPD