The Mercedes-Benz eVito vans are equipped with a 60 kWh battery and an 85 kW (approximately 115 horsepower) electric motor, making them well-suited for the frequent stops typical of delivery routes. The vans benefit from Mercedes-Benz Vans Courier Solutions, a factory program that allows customization to meet specific delivery needs. Although the eVito’s battery is rated for a range of 261 kilometers (162 miles), the low-speed, high-regeneration driving conditions of postal routes are expected to extend real-world range.
Richard Pittard, Australia Post’s Chief Sustainability Officer, stated: “This is our largest electric van trial to date. It’s a meaningful step forward as we continue building a modern, sustainable delivery network that meets the evolving needs of our customers while reducing our environmental impact.” The trial aims to gather data on the vans’ performance in real-world conditions to inform future fleet expansions.
Australia Post already operates a diverse electric vehicle fleet, including over 3,600 three-wheeled electric delivery vehicles, 1,500 e-bikes, nearly 200 UBCO DUTY electric motorcycles, and several Mitsubishi eFUSO electric box vans at major logistics hubs. The new eVito vans will primarily serve densely populated metropolitan areas, where their operation will contribute to improved air quality and public health.
This initiative highlights Australia Post’s leadership in adopting clean energy solutions for logistics. The deployment of electric vans aligns with efforts to reduce emissions and modernize delivery operations, ensuring reliability while addressing environmental concerns. The trial’s outcomes will guide the potential scaling of electric van use across the organization’s network.
By integrating these advanced vehicles, Australia Post aims to meet the growing demand for efficient and eco-friendly delivery services. The eVito vans, with their tailored design and robust performance, are expected to enhance operational efficiency in urban settings, where stop-and-go driving is common.
This program underscores the feasibility of electric vehicles in large-scale delivery operations, setting a precedent for sustainable practices in the logistics sector. As Australia Post continues to innovate, the trial will provide valuable insights into optimizing electric vehicle performance, supporting the organization’s long-term environmental and operational goals.
