DHL & Michelin: Driving Green Logistics in Thailand

DHL Supply Chain Thailand has joined forces with Michelin to introduce an electric prime mover to decarbonise its logistics operations. The full EV will significantly reduce emissions, marking a step towards the companies' shared commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Driving sustainability: The electric prime mover

The electric prime mover, powered by 100% clean energy, is expected to cut carbon emissions by approximately 195 metric tonnes annually. It will transport raw materials between Michelin's factories and will be fitted with MICHELIN X Multi Z2 and MICHELIN X Multi D+ tyres, ensuring durability and efficiency.

The collaboration forms part of a wider memorandum of understanding (MOU) between DHL and Michelin, which aims to develop services and products that enhance safety, sustainability, and circularity in local and global operations.

Steve Walker, CEO of DHL Supply Chain Thailand Cluster, highlighted the importance 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 crucial in accelerating decarbonisation efforts."

He further highlighted DHL's commitment to innovation in sustainable logistics:

"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."

Impact on the logistics industry

Logistics remains a significant challenge in the journey towards sustainability, with road freight, aviation and shipping among the largest contributors to global emissions. As consumers and stakeholders demand greater transparency and accountability, businesses must accelerate their transition to low-carbon logistics solutions.

Collaborations like the DHL-Michelin partnership are crucial in driving green transport innovation. The initiative advances eco-friendly urban logistics and sets a benchmark for sustainable logistics in Thailand, encouraging wider adoption of EV technology across supply chains.

These technological enhancements ensure operational efficiency while reducing emissions, reinforcing the role of electric vehicles in transforming heavy-duty logistics.

The technology behind the electric prime mover

The electric prime mover is a zero-emission heavy-duty truck designed for efficiency and sustainability. 

DHL's Connected Control Tower will oversee the truck's operations using advanced tracking and route optimisation systems. These include the Transport Management System (TMS) for efficient fleet coordination, the Paragon Route Optimisation System to enhance delivery accuracy, telematics technology for real-time vehicle monitoring, and DHL's MySupplyChain digital platform to provide end-to-end visibility and management of logistics operations.

The AI-powered onboard cameras and real-time incident alerts will enhance safety. At the same time, DHL's EV driver training programme ensures drivers have the skills to handle electric freight transport.

The partnership sets a precedent for low-carbon transportation solutions by integrating Michelin's sustainable tyre technology and DHL's advanced AI fleet management.

Michelin's all-sustainable strategy

Michelin's partnership with DHL aligns with its "Michelin in Motion" sustainability strategy, which focuses on balancing economic, human, and environmental priorities. The strategy aims to:

• Achieve net-zero emissions across all operations by 2050
• Integrate 100% recycled and renewable materials in tyres by 2050
• Enhance resource optimisation and climate action initiatives

By 2024, Michelin has already made substantial progress:

• Scope 1 & 2 emissions reduced by 37%
• +4.3% contribution to net-zero emissions in tyre usage
• 31% circularity in tyre production, targeting full circularity by 2050

Ahmadreza Bahrami, Vice President, Supply Chain & Logistics at Michelin Asia Pacific, reaffirmed the company's commitment to sustainability:

"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."

Advancing green logistics through collaboration

The partnership between DHL Supply Chain Thailand and Michelin is a significant step towards decarbonising the logistics industry. By deploying a fully electric prime mover, the initiative minimises noise pollution and significantly reduces carbon emissions, marking an essential shift in supply chain sustainability.

By combining Michelin's sustainable tyre technology with DHL's AI-driven fleet management, the collaboration enhances efficiency and accelerates the transition to low-carbon transport solutions.

As industries worldwide seek to reduce their environmental impact, partnerships like this demonstrate the power of innovation and collaboration in shaping the future of sustainable logistics.

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