While delivery is not expected until 2024 the type will perform its maiden flight later this year

DHL Express has announced the purchase of 12 fully electric aircraft from Eviation, as part of its plans to establish the world's first electric air cargo network.

Flown by a single pilot, the “Alice” has a maximum range of 440nm, and will be capable of transporting 2,600lbs of goods.

Its advanced electric motors have fewer moving parts to increase reliability and reduce maintenance costs, while its operating software constantly monitors flight performance to ensure optimal efficiency.

Furthermore, the Alice requires just 30 minutes to charge per flight hour, which can be completed during loading and unloading to achieve quick turnaround times that maintain the company’s tight schedules.

“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.”

Travis Cobb, EVP global network operations and aviation for DHL, added: “My compliments to Eviation on the innovative development of the fully electric Alice aircraft. 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.”