DHL Express and Eviation, the Seattle-area based global manufacturer of all-electric aircraft, announced that DHL is the first to order 12 fully electric Alice eCargo planes from Eviation.

With this deal, DHL said in a statement that it aims to set up an unparalleled electric Express network and make a pioneering step into a sustainable aviation future.

"We firmly believe in a future with zero-emission logistics," says John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. "Therefore, our investments always follow the objective of improving our carbon footprint. On our way to clean logistics operations, the electrification of every transport mode plays a crucial role and will significantly contribute to our overall sustainability goal of zero emissions."

"Founded in 1969, DHL Express has been known as a pioneer in the aviation industry for decades. We have found the perfect partner with Eviation as they share our purpose, and together we will take off into a new era of sustainable aviation," Pearson added.

Eviation's Alice is a leading fully-electric aircraft, which enables airlines — both cargo and passenger — to operate a zero-emission fleet.

Eviation expects to deliver the Alice electric aircraft to DHL Express in 2024.

DHL noted that the Alice can be flown by a single pilot and will carry 1,200 kilograms (2,600 lbs). It will require 30 minutes or less to charge per flight hour and have a maximum range of up to 815 kilometers (440 nautical miles).

It will also operate in all environments currently serviced by piston and turbine aircraft.

Alice's advanced electric motors have fewer moving parts to increase reliability and reduce maintenance costs. Its operating software constantly monitors flight performance to ensure optimal efficiency, DHL said.

"From day one, we set an audacious goal to transform the aviation industry and create a new era with electric aircraft," said Eviation CEO Omer Bar-Yohay.

"Partnering with companies like DHL who are the leaders in sustainable e-cargo transportation is a testament that the electric era is upon us. This announcement is a significant milestone on our quest to transform the future of flight across the globe."

DHL said the aircraft is ideal for feeder routes and requires less investment in station infrastructure. The Alice can be charged while loading and unloading operations occur, ensuring quick turnaround times that maintain DHL Express' tight schedules.

"My compliments to Eviation on the innovative development of the fully electric Alice aircraft" says Travis Cobb, EVP Global Network Operations and Aviation for DHL Express.

"With Alice's range and capacity, this is a fantastic sustainable solution for our global network. Our aspiration is to make a substantial contribution in reducing our carbon footprint, and these advancements in fleet and technology will go a long way in achieving further carbon reductions."

First flight later this year

Alice has been specifically designed so that it can be configured for e-cargo or passengers. Eviation's Alice all-electric aircraft is on track for its first flight later this year.

DHL noted that decarbonization of its operations is one of the main pillars of the Group's new Sustainability roadmap.

The Group is also investing a total of 7 billion euros (Opex and Capex) by 2030 in measures to reduce its CO2 emissions.