Green Logistics: DHL & Michelin's Electric Prime Mover

DHL Supply Chain Thailand has joined forces with Michelin to introduce an electric prime mover in their operations.

This is set to reduce emissions by approximately 195 tonnes every year.

Both companies aim to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2050, and this prime mover will play an important part.

The electric prime mover will transport raw materials between Michelin’s production sites and boasts advanced tyres such as MICHELIN X Multi Z2 and MICHELIN X Multi D+.

The partnership will also be part of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between DHL and Michelin to craft services and products that enhance safety, sustainability and circularity in both their local and global operations.

Steve Walker, CEO of DHL Supply Chain Thailand Cluster, explains: “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.”

Sustainable logistics

Logistics-related emissions pose a considerable sustainability challenge, particularly in the aviation, road freight and maritime sectors.

With heightened consumer and stakeholder demand for more responsible environmental actions, organisations are under greater scrutiny to decarbonise their supply chains.

Industry collaboration, such as the partnership between DHL and Michelin, is fundamental in advancing sustainable logistics solutions.

Not only will this partnership help advance green transport innovation through AI-powered fleet management and eco-friendly urban logistics from zero noise pollution, it will also help set a benchmark for green logistics in Thailand and encourage wider EV adoption in supply chains.

DHL’s AI-led tracking and telematics will help reduce energy waste, enhance vehicle performance and optimise fleet routes for minimal impact.

The collaboration highlights the impact EV transport can have on heavy logistics, and how it can help supply chains transition to low-emissions alternatives while maintaining operational efficiency. 

The electric prime mover

The electric prime mover is a 100% clean energy, zero-emission heavy duty truck that will improve sustainability in logistics.

It only takes two hours to fully recharge and can travel up to 350km on a single charge. It will operate on two key routes - Phra Pradaeng to Nong Kae and Phra Pradaeng to Laem Chabang.

DHL's Connected Control Tower utilises diverse technologies such as the Transport Management System, Paragon Route Optimisation System and DHL’s MySupplyChain digital platform to ensure efficient operation and real-time monitoring.

Additionally, specialised training for EV drivers prioritises safety, reinforcing the commitment to sustainable and secure logistics operations.

Michelin's sustainability efforts

Aligning with Michelin's All-Sustainable Strategy, which is part of its broader “Michelin in Motion” initiative, the partnership supports the company’s commitment to balancing economic, human and environmental considerations.

Michelin's strategy includes significant milestones such as reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 37% by 2024, aiming for net zero emissions by 2050 and enhancing the circularity of its tyres.

Its vision for sustainability extends to integrating 100% recycled and renewable materials in Michelin tyres by 2050.

Ahmadreza Bahrami, Vice President, Supply Chain & Logistics, Michelin Asia Pacific, says: “At Michelin, sustainability is not just a vision – it is our action plan. Our commitment to integrating 100% recycled and renewable materials in our tires 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."

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