DHL Express and Volkswagen have joined forces for a pilot test featuring the ID.Buzz Cargo lineup in South Africa. Four electric vans bearing the VW brand will be stationed at DHL service centers in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban for a duration of six months. This collaboration is viewed as an essential step for both companies, with Volkswagen aiming to raise awareness about its electric vehicles (EVs) in South Africa and gather valuable feedback to inform the brand’s EV strategy in the region.
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The deployment of the ID.Buzz Cargo test fleet aligns with Volkswagen Group South Africa’s broader strategy for electric vehicles, especially within the Volkswagen brand in South Africa. The pilot program, focused on last-mile delivery services, is an integral part of DHL’s local initiative to test global zero emissions logistics goals. DHL Express South Africa is committed to achieving zero emissions by 2050, and this project plays a role in ensuring at least 60% of its last-mile delivery vehicles are electric by 2030.
Jed Michaletos, Managing Director at DHL Express South Africa, emphasized the company’s dedication to sustainability leadership in the logistics industry, stating, “As the world’s leading logistics company, we have a responsibility to set an example in our industry and be a sustainability leader.”
Thomas Milz, Director of Sales and Marketing at Volkswagen South Africa, sees this partnership as the initial phase of the carmaker’s long-term plan to gradually introduce its EVs in the country. Milz stated, “At the end of the pilot test, we hope to have gathered sufficient information and insights on the readiness of the local market for the introduction of a commercial electric vehicle such as the ID.Buzz Cargo.” The project reflects a strategic approach toward integrating electric mobility solutions into the South African market and fostering sustainable last-mile delivery practices.
