DHL Supply Chain has launched a Superlink electric truck pilot in partnership with Unilever and Volvo Trucks South Africa. The trial, which began on 1 August 2025, puts advanced zero-emission technology to work on real-world logistics routes, testing the future of sustainable freight in the country.
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The initiative pairs a fully electric Volvo FMX 6X4 tractor with an 18-metre curtain-sided Superlink double trailer for Unilever’s supply chain operations. The goal is to measure performance, sustainability benefits, and economic viability compared to diesel, particularly within Africa’s developing EV infrastructure landscape.
"This pilot underscores DHL’s commitment to sustainable logistics and transport solutions despite infrastructure challenges in Africa,” said Bremer Pauw, managing director of DHL Supply Chain Africa. “While limitations remain in scaling EV solutions, strategic partnerships like this enable us to test and capitalise on the technologies available today, proving that low-carbon logistics can be possible, even in emerging markets."
Volvo’s cleaner transport legacy
Volvo Trucks South Africa has long pushed cleaner technologies. Its Euro 5 trucks, available locally since 2012, already help DHL customers cut their environmental footprint. With the electric tractor, Volvo is adding the latest in advanced, low-emission vehicle technology to the market.
"As part of our sustainability commitment, we’ve proactively introduced cleaner transport solutions, including assembling Euro 5 trucks locally ahead of regulation," said Eric Parry, senior manager, sustainable solutions, Volvo Trucks South Africa. “This pilot reflects our belief that collaboration is key to accelerating Africa’s transition to sustainable freight transport."
Real-world testing and charging solutions
The Superlink will operate along standard logistics routes and be charged using Aeversa infrastructure at existing Unilever facilities during the pilot. DHL’s long-term aim is to move to renewable energy for charging, further reducing the vehicle’s carbon footprint. Data will be benchmarked against DHL’s Euro 5 diesel fleet, which already outperforms South Africa’s Euro 2-equivalent vehicle emission standards.
Driving towards net zero
“Unilever is committed to achieving net-zero emissions across our operations by 2039. Collaborations such as this pilot with DHL and Volvo Trucks are crucial steps toward reaching our sustainability objectives, enabling us to test and implement innovative transportation solutions that foster a greener supply chain,” said Simphiwe Dlamini, national transport manager, Unilever South Africa.
The results of the pilot could shape DHL’s long-term sustainability strategy and speed up the adoption of electric freight solutions across its African operations.
This pilot underscores DHL’s and partners’ commitment to sustainable logistics innovation in South Africa.
