Apr 2, 2007

TNT, one of the world's leading express companies, launched a pilot project in India to use bio fuel for its delivery vehicles. The initial phase will see specially trained drivers run three bio fuel trucks between Pune, Nasik and Bangalore, covering a total of 45,000 kilometres per month. Routes and driving times are optimised to further reduce carbon emissions. If the project proves efficient, TNT intends to expand it within its Indian fleet of vehicles.

Peter Bakker, Chief Executive Officer of TNT, said: "Environmental quality is a priority for TNT. More efficient and eco-friendly vehicles can help reduce the environmental impact of TNT's fleet. We are also pleased to contribute to the Indian government's bio fuel policy."

The Indian government already promotes bio fuel trains for transporting passengers and freight. Close to 44 million hectares - equivalent to two-thirds of the Netherlands' area - of degraded forest land are currently used in India for growing the vegetation needed for alternative fuel. Local farmers will benefit from growing bio fuel crops, which can be a new source of revenues and jobs.

TNT's bio fuel pilot project in India is part of the company's global "Driving Clean" initiative to improve its environmental performance. TNT is already using alternative fuels and technologies in a variety of pilot projects in the UK, the Netherlands, Germany and Australia.

In December 2006, TNT Express unveiled the world's largest high performance, zero emission electric vehicle in London and is now planning to introduce up to 500 vehicles - at a potential cost of £25m - in other UK locations and European cities such as Paris, Madrid, Milan, Amsterdam and Berlin over the next 36 months, should the trial from TNT's depot in Barking prove successful.

The vehicle - a Smiths Electric 'Newton' model - is the first ever in its class that can compete with its diesel equivalent - but without the polluting effects of 'controlled' (i.e. nitrogen oxide and particulate matter) and CO2 emissions.

Peter Bakker said: "We're deadly serious about our commitment to significantly reduce controlled and CO2 emissions. This proposal across the UK and Europe will further consolidate TNT's position at the top of the 'green league' in the transportation sector."