DHL has a clear goal: to achieve zero emissions by 2050. Based on this premise, the company has structured and consolidated initiatives throughout Latin America, including Mexico and Brazil, with its 100 per cent electric armoured vehicles.
“In some countries, we have our own fleet, while in others, we work with third parties. What’s interesting is that, in both cases, we are driving electrification,” says Juan Carlos Aderman, Vice President of Transport at DHL Supply Chain, to Mobility Portal Latinoamérica.
He emphasises the importance of tailoring electrification to the specific contexts of each country.
“We work strategically to ensure that green technology is not only viable in the short term but also has a sustainable impact in the long term,” he comments.
The electrification of armoured vehicles in Latin America shows that electric vehicles are not limited to urban journeys but can also meet needs in sectors such as security.
This comprehensive approach also includes evaluating available vehicles to ensure they meet distance, performance, and parts availability requirements.
“Not all vehicles are suitable for all regions,” adds Aderman.
In countries where security is a constant concern, such as Mexico and Brazil, DHL adapts to its customers’ needs.
The company employs engineers who exclusively focus on adapting electric technologies to sector requirements and modifying the vehicles.
“It’s not just about the engine or chassis; we look at how to increase capacity, offer more volume, and optimise routes for shorter distances with greater efficiency,” he says.
How were 100% electric armoured vehicles developed?
According to Aderman, the initial development seemed impossible due to the weight of the armour.
“We thought the electric engine might not provide the necessary capacity,” he admits.
The first step was to select a chassis and engine that met productivity requirements, followed by the challenge of designing armour that did not affect the vehicle’s agility or range.
After a series of tests, DHL succeeded in developing an ultralight armoured vehicle, even lighter than its combustion engine counterpart.
This breakthrough was achieved through the choice of materials and collaboration with several manufacturers responsible for different components, such as the chassis, bodywork, and armour.
“The result is a vehicle that is not only energy-efficient but also integrates advanced safety systems, like GPS and cameras,” he reports.
Challenges in infrastructure and availability of electric vehicles
DHL has initiatives in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Peru, and Argentina.
The first major challenge is infrastructure.
“It’s not just about installing chargers at our facilities,” explains Aderman, adding, “We also need to consider where the electricity comes from and whether the building is equipped to handle this demand.”
In this regard, the company is working on creating appropriate infrastructure at its own facilities while also facing the limitations of each country’s general infrastructure.
The second challenge is the availability of electric vehicles.
Although the demand for these vehicles continues to grow, brands and manufacturers are still in the process of increasing their production capacity.
“The average delivery time for an electric vehicle can be six months or more,” he notes. This means that immediate vehicle acquisition is not possible, forcing DHL to plan its electrification projects in advance and coordinate with suppliers.
