Hermes is to add electric vans to its German fleet from early 2018 under a pilot project to test their viability for ‘last-mile’ journeys.

By the end of 2020, the logistics service provider will deploy 1,500 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Vito electric vans for urban deliveries in Hamburg and Stuttgart to explore their economy, practicality and sustainability.

The move forms part of Hermes’ plans to ensure inner-city deliveries in all major German cities are emission-free by 2025. Vehicles will be charged using electricity from 100% regenerative energy sources and in line with the ‘Grüner Strom’ green-electricity label from environmental associations.

Volker Mornhinweg, head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, said: “Electric drive is a key technology for urban transport – especially in commercial use. Last-mile deliveries must become more efficient and – in specific applications – emission-free.”

The partnership follows Hermes’ deployment of the Vito E-Cell in 2011 and the firm is also working with Daimler and the city of Stuttgart on trialling five battery-powered Fuso Canter E-Cell vehicles in urban distribution transport.

Under the latest partnership with Hermes, Mercedes-Benz Vans will also implement connected services – including covering optimal route planning with the use of information on the vans’ batteries and remaining range – along with intelligent cargo-space solutions and new mobility services, such as leasing offers and short-term rentals for contract partners of Hermes.