DHL Supply Chain Thailand and Michelin are pushing the boundaries of sustainability with the introduction of an electric prime mover in Thailand. The collaboration takes a major step toward their shared goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The new electric truck will be deployed across crucial transport corridors linking Michelin’s production sites in Phra Pradaeng, Nong Kae, and Laem Chabang.
A Powerful Collaboration for a Greener Future
DHL and Michelin’s partnership is built on a foundation of innovation, sustainability, and circular logistics, with both companies pledging to drive meaningful change in the logistics sector.
The companies have formalised their joint efforts through a memorandum of understanding (MOU), with a focus on creating products and services that enhance both safety and environmental responsibility.
This initiative is in line with Michelin’s “Michelin in Motion” strategy and DHL’s Green Transport Policy, which both prioritise decarbonisation.
Steve Walker, CEO of DHL Supply Chain Thailand Cluster, discussed the partnership’s importance,
“In line with our Green Transport Policy, we are always looking to electrify our transport fleet within our supply chain and finding more sustainable ways to operate. Hence, we are excited that Michelin is joining this journey with us to support low and zero carbon road transportation. Introducing our first electric prime mover with them is a crucial step in accelerating decarbonisation efforts. With our expertise in automotive supply chain management and electric vehicles, DHL Supply Chain is committed to supporting Michelin in its mission to reduce carbon emissions and achieve its sustainability goals. Innovation is at the heart of our operations and we will continue to develop solutions that shape a sustainable future for logistics with our customers.”
A Game Changer in Logistics
The newly introduced electric prime mover is a 100% clean energy, zero-emission heavy-duty truck designed to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions. Key features include:
- Zero emissions: Fully electric operation with no carbon output
- Fast-charging capability: Recharges completely in just two hours
- Extended range: Covers up to 350 km on a single charge
- AI-powered fleet management: Enables route optimisation and real-time tracking
- Noise reduction: Contributes to quieter and more eco-friendly urban logistics
DHL has integrated advanced telematics and AI-driven tracking systems into its Connected Control Tower, enabling energy-efficient route planning and real-time monitoring of its fleet.
The company also employs its Transport Management System, Paragon Route Optimisation System, and MySupplyChain digital platform to enhance operational efficiency.
Michelin, in turn, has outfitted the electric prime mover with innovative sustainable tyres, including the MICHELIN X Multi Z2 and MICHELIN X Multi D+, engineered for durability, fuel efficiency, and low rolling resistance.
Reducing Emissions and Setting Industry Standards
The electric prime mover is expected to cut carbon emissions by around 195 tonnes annually, demonstrating the practicality of electric heavy transport for logistics operations. The vehicle will be deployed for transporting raw materials between Michelin’s production facilities, covering the routes from Phra Pradaeng to Nong Kae and Phra Pradaeng to Laem Chabang.
Logistics-related emissions are a major sustainability challenge, particularly in road freight, aviation, and maritime transport. Companies are increasingly pressured to find sustainable solutions.
The partnership between DHL and Michelin exemplifies how electrification can be successfully integrated into heavy transport.
Ahmadreza Bahrami, Vice President of Supply Chain & Logistics at Michelin Asia Pacific, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainable mobility,
“At Michelin, sustainability is not just a vision – it is our action plan. Our commitment to integrating 100% recycled and renewable materials in our tyres by 2050 is a testament to our leadership in sustainable mobility. We are accelerating the transition to cleaner transportation while maintaining the highest performance standards through innovation and collaboration, such as this partnership with DHL. Together, we are shaping a future where mobility is both efficient and environmentally responsible.”
Michelin’s Sustainability Roadmap
The initiative aligns with Michelin’s All-Sustainable Strategy, which prioritises economic, human, and environmental responsibility. Key sustainability targets include:
- Reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 37% by 2024
- Achieving net-zero emissions by 2050
- Using 100% recycled and renewable materials in all tyres by 2050
Michelin continues to drive industry-wide change by utilising its expertise in sustainable tyre technology, ensuring that transportation solutions are both high-performing and environmentally friendly.
Conclusion
The introduction of the electric prime mover is a milestone in sustainable supply chain solutions, cementing DHL and Michelin’s leadership in green transport innovation. Through AI-powered fleet management, eco-friendly tyres, and zero-emission vehicles, the partnership sets a benchmark for sustainable logistics, with potential to impact the industry beyond Thailand.