Correios de Portugal (CTT) makes it clear that its electrification strategy is not merely a matter of complying with environmental regulations, but rather a determined investment towards a more sustainable future.
In this context, Maria Rebelo, Director of Sustainability, emphasises that the plan to electrify 50% of its last-mile fleet by 2025 and achieve 100% by 2030 is “ambitious but absolutely necessary.”
Over the past two years, CTT has tripled its electric vehicle (EV) fleet, reaching nearly 800 units, with the goal of ensuring that 30% are zero-emission by the end of the year.
The primary brands of these vehicles include Toyota and Peugeot, among others.
“We are constantly seeking new models that meet our operational needs,” she states.
What is the key to this growth? Primarily, investment in charging infrastructure.
Correios has opted to develop its own internal network, a decision that, according to Rebelo, stems from the public network’s inability to meet its requirements.
“We have nearly 500 charging points in our buildings and continue to expand them,” she remarks in a conversation with Mobility Portal Europe.
She adds: “We are exploring various solutions related to public infrastructure to enhance our reach while supporting our subcontractors and partners in their decarbonisation efforts.”
This network is essential for last-mile operations, where CTT’s electric vehicles cover routes of up to 150 kilometres (km).
However, one of the significant challenges facing the company is the electrification of its long-distance fleet.
“Currently, we do not see any technologies in the market that assist us in this regards,” she indicates.
Therefore, the company is investigating new solutions to cover distances exceeding 150 or 200 km.
Correios’ focus on decarbonisation is meticulous and long-term.
In 2021, it published its carbon emissions reduction plan, aligning with the global objective of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
The commitment to reducing its emissions reflects a forward-thinking vision that considers both technological advancements and operational efficiency.
Rebelo insists that this objective is crucial: “We are a highly polluting sector, and our transportation-related activities have a significant impact on carbon emissions.”
A key aspect of CTT’s strategy is its vehicle acquisition model.
In this regard, the Sustainability Director explains: “The majority of our cars are now acquired through long-term leasing (AOV).”
This system allows them to constantly renew the fleet and ensure that they have the most efficient and technologically advanced EVs available.
As a result of this approach, its fleet is one of the youngest in Portugal, with an average age of just four years.
What comprises Correios de Portugal’s charging network?
The partnership with EDP Comercial is a pillar in the development of its charging infrastructure.
With over 500 points across 110 strategic locations, the network is expected to be fully operational by the second quarter of this year.
This collaboration not only enables the simultaneous charging of more vehicles but also guarantees digital monitoring and intelligent management of the “refuelling” system, optimising the use of the facility.
In this context, the company is investing in renewable energy sources, installing photovoltaic panels on its buildings to further reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
“The impact on our carbon footprint is significant, as all our facilities use 100% certified green electricity,” emphasises Rebelo.
The firm remains heavily reliant on its internal network to ensure the efficiency of its operations, with five of its distribution centres being 100 per cent electric today.
How has the incorporation of EVs improved delivery efficiency?
“We are observing an increase in efficiency with electric vehicles,” the expert highlights.
How so? By providing greater convenience to its postmen and distributors, “as they are automatic.”
Furthermore, this is enhancing the express service offering, reflecting growth in activity and an improvement in the carbon footprint per item delivered.
“This is a positive aspect that deserves highlighting,” she asserts.
It is noteworthy that Correios de Portugal does not receive state support for this transformation; the investment is entirely self-funded.
“We are prepared for this and are capable of fulfilling our commitments,” she concludes.
