UPS is ramping up the electrification of its fleet as part of efforts to be carbon neutral by 2050. 

"At UPS we are focused on continuing to test, validate, deploy and scale commercial electric vehicles throughout our global operations. We work alongside innovative companies to develop electric vehicle solutions that enhance our operations," said Luke Wake UPS vice president of fleet maintenance & engineering.

In an update, the American multinational logistics company noted that UPS has been investing in, researching, and driving electric vehicles (EVs) since the 1930s. 

UPS said its current global fleet includes over 13,000 alternate fuel and advanced technology vehicles, including more than 1,000 electric and plugin hybrid electric vehicles on the road – an essential part of our plans to reach carbon neutrality by 2050 and achieve 40% alternative fuel in ground operations by 2025.

It added that UPS has also committed to purchase up to 10,000 EVs from the U.K. startup, Arrival, with many more to deploy later this year as the company continues to deploy EVs throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.

UPS said EVs are just one part of its alternate fuel and advanced technology fleet plans to impact environmental sustainability.

"We need the right vehicle to match the operational need first and foremost," Luke said. "Then we consider where it makes good business sense to grow and scale the electric fleet. That's a recipe for adding EVs in the most beneficial way, positively impacting the environment and society."