DHL Supply Chain Thailand has partnered with Michelin to introduce an electric prime mover. The vehicle will be used to transport raw materials between Michelin’s factories, reducing carbon emissions by approximately 195 metric tonnes per year.
The electric prime mover will operate on two key routes: Phra Pradaeng – Nong Kae and Phra Pradaeng – Laem Chabang. Capable of travelling up to 350 kilometres on a single charge, it takes just two hours to fully recharge. With zero tailpipe emissions and minimal noise pollution, the initiative aligns with broader environmental commitments made by both companies.
Steve Walker, CEO of DHL Supply Chain Thailand Cluster, highlighted the significance of the initiative: “In line with our Green Transport Policy, we are always looking to electrify our transport fleet within our supply chain and find 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.”
He added that DHL Supply Chain’s expertise in automotive supply chain management and electric vehicles would help Michelin in its efforts to reduce emissions.
Ahmadreza Bahrami, Vice President, Supply Chain & Logistics, Michelin Asia Pacific, underlined Michelin’s long-term sustainability ambitions: “At Michelin, sustainability is not just a vision – it is our action plan. Our commitment to integrating 100 per cent 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.”
The DHL Connected Control Tower will oversee the electric vehicle’s operations, employing Paragon Route Optimisation, Transport Management Systems, Telematics, and MySupplyChain digital platform. AI-powered onboard cameras will provide real-time incident alerts, ensuring efficiency and safety. Drivers of the electric prime mover will also receive specialised training in electric vehicle operations and road safety.
The partnership between DHL and Michelin represents a major step towards sustainable logistics in Thailand, aligning with the companies’ recent memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop sustainable, safe, and circular solutions for their global and local operations.
