Deutsche Post DHL has added to its fleet of about 11,500 vehicles one with alternative drive systems and aerodynamic modifications. It is a teardrop trailer for use throughout Germany and France, as part of DHL's logistics service for Airbus.

The aerodynamic form of this teardrop-shaped trailer, designed by Don-Bur, features a curved roof that reduces air resistance and cuts fuel consumption by up to 6%-10% compared to regular heavy-load trucks.

"We are working hand-in-hand with our customers towards greener solutions. Adding this new vehicle for heavy load transport is one example where both of us benefit from the optimised aerodynamic shape and a reduced carbon footprint," said Tom Jeroense, global lead logistics provider for Airbus at DHL. "We already have several years of experience using these trailers, mainly in the UK, and they truly live up to their promise."

Christoph Boré, head of transport general cargo at Airbus, said:" I am very happy today to launch the first Teardrop Trailer for mainland Europe. The Teardrop Trailer is a tailor-made solution by DHL for Airbus and will save fuel, costs and carbon emissions. In doing so, the new vehicle underlines the commitment of both DHL and Airbus to implement environmentally friendly and innovative technologies to make road transport greener."

In the UK, DHL already deploys more than 1,100 Teardrop trailers, which have been further developed and modified over the years. The new trailer is designed specifically for use in mainland Europe to meet European legislation requirements. Key features include:

Distinctive curved roof to reduce resistance and increase fuel efficiency. Forward-swept front bulkhead to reduce turbulence. New lightweight recyclable blade panels to help reduce fuel consumption. Unique spoiler feature. Tailor-made load solution of 10t to accommodate specific transport needs of Airbus. General payload of up to 40t possible. Maximum four-metre vehicle height in line with European legislation.

Deutsche Post DHL has been involved in many alternative drive system projects over the years, including hybrid engines, electric vehicles, both natural gas and bio-gas vehicles, as well as dual-fuel and aerodynamic modifications. Electric and hybrid vehicles are especially suited for driving in stop-and-go city delivery. In mid-2013, for instance, Deutsche Post DHL began transforming Bonn, where the Group is headquartered, into Germany's first city with a carbon-free vehicle concept for mail and parcel delivery. For heavy load transport, the group uses hybrid engines, dual-fuel trucks, and teardrop trailers.