DHL Freight and SuperPanther Test Electric Trucks in Austria

DHL Freight and SuperPanther share the same vision of pollutant-free logistics. To help make this vision a reality, the two companies have entered into a strategic partnership. They are now taking an important step toward putting their vision into practice. DHL Freight and SuperPanther are conducting joint test drives with the eTopas 600 to evaluate the practical suitability of this electric truck.

The First Milestone of the Sustainable Partnership

In the fall of 2024, DHL Freight and Superpanther signed at the IAA Transportation in Hanover a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on strategic cooperation. The agreement focuses on promoting CO₂-neutral models in road freight transport. Both companies are now following up on their declaration of intent by jointly bringing the eTopas 600 onto the road in Austria.

SuperPanther is a Chinese company founded in 2022 that specializes in new energy technologies for medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. The eTopas 600 is SuperPanther’s first electric truck developed for the European market. SuperPanther is collaborating with an Austrian original equipment manufacturer (OEM) on this project.

From Wels to Vienna and Back With the eTopas 600

DHL Freight has proposed a suitable route for the practical test: from Wels, located in the Upper Austrian Alpine foreland, to the Austrian capital of Vienna and back. The total distance is around 400 kilometers. The eTopas 600 will carry a 15-ton cargo load. An initial test drive took place at the end of October, and further tests are scheduled for the first quarter of 2026.

We met a year ago and discussed the history of SuperPanther and the vision of bringing the electric truck to Europe. Now, having the opportunity to test drive it is truly incredible.

Antje Huber, SVP Strategy, Marketing & Staff, DHL Freight

Early Involvement in the Research and Development Phase

The joint test drives with the eTopas 600 align with the primary goal of the MoU between DHL Freight and SuperPanther: to jointly research and develop concepts for low- and zero-carbon transportation. DHL contributes its expertise as logistics industry leader, and SuperPanther provides innovative technology.

Close cooperation during the research and development phase provides valuable feedback for both parties involved. Tests conducted under realistic conditions provide insight into the

• security,
• functionality,
• user-friendliness,
• and compatibility with DHL standards.

This allows for a quicker market launch, providing the industry with a sustainable transportation solution early on.

Another Step Toward Low-Emission Logistics

DHL Freight and DHL are taking a technology-neutral approach to achieving their goal of reducing all logistics-related emissions to net zero by 2050. This applies to both short-term measures, such as the use of HVO 100, bio-LNG, and bio-CNG, and long-term solutions, such as hydrogen technology. At the same time, we recognize the enormous sustainability potential of e-mobility.

This is why DHL Freight is involved in a variety of activities in the e-transport sector. Examples include the recent trial use of BYD electric trucks for local transport in the Cologne area and the regular operation of electric trucks for Satair in Hamburg. For us, there are many paths, but one goal: achieving the highest delivery quality in the most sustainable way possible.