Ford and DHL launch StreetScooter Work XL electric van for urban deliveries
Ford and Deutsche Post DHL Group have started production of the StreetScooter Work XL, an electric delivery van based on the Ford Transit, with 150 units on German roads by end of 2017.
Ford and Deutsche Post DHL Group have begun production of the StreetScooter Work XL, an all-electric delivery van built on the Ford Transit chassis. The first 150 units are scheduled to enter service in Germany before the end of 2017, as part of DHL’s plan to expand its electric fleet for urban parcel delivery.
The Work XL is the largest model in the StreetScooter range and has been developed specifically for high-volume parcel deliveries in cities. Ford supplies the chassis, while StreetScooter, a subsidiary of Deutsche Post DHL, handles the electric conversion and bodywork. The van can carry over 200 packages and features both rear and sliding side doors for efficient loading and unloading.
Battery and range options
Work XL models are fitted with battery packs ranging from 30 to 90 kilowatt hours. This gives a claimed range between 80 and 200 kilometres on a single charge, depending on the battery selected and the route profile. The flexibility allows DHL to tailor vans for different urban delivery needs, balancing payload and range.
| Base vehicle | Ford Transit chassis |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 30–90 kWh |
| Range (claimed) | 80–200 km (50–124 miles) |
| Annual CO2 saving (per van) | Up to 5,000 kg |
| Annual diesel saving (per van) | Up to 1,900 litres |
| Cargo capacity | Over 200 packages |
Production plans and environmental impact
Ford and DHL have set a production target of 2,500 units by the end of 2018, following the initial batch of 150 vehicles. According to DHL, each Work XL van could save up to 5,000 kilograms of CO2 emissions and 1,900 litres of diesel per year compared to a conventional diesel van. This supports DHL’s broader strategy to reduce emissions and noise in urban centres.
DHL already operates more than 3,000 StreetScooter Work and Work L electric vans in Germany, but the Work XL is the first to use a Ford platform. The collaboration allows DHL to scale up production and adapt the vehicle to the demands of larger cities, where parcel volumes continue to rise.
