Ford has partnered with courier firm Hermes to trial a more sustainable way of deliveries, with the hope to make them both greener and quicker.
Using Ford’s logistic software known as ‘MoDE:Link’, the technology identifies the best places where drivers can park up, and then a separate pedestrian courier can complete deliveries in the local area by foot, without the need to keep driving short distances, and subsequently using more fuel.
A smartphone app has been devised by the firm, which integrates with Hermes tracking systems and also means customers can see the status of their deliveries and track them in real time.
Trials have been up and running since September 2020, and has been in operation over Christmas – the busiest time of the year for deliveries, spurred on by lockdown restrictions meaning many non-essential shops have been shut for some time.
The trials involved two Ford transit vans working with eight pedestrian couriers, and managed to deliver the same number of parcels as six conventional vans would have done, as well in less time.
Carl Lyon, chief operating officer of Hermes UK, said: “We are exploring new delivery initiatives that can reduce emissions for the final mile delivery as part of our commitment to sustainability, and to also be prepared for further incoming legislation in cities, such as ultra-low emission zones.
“In addition, this operating model is easy to scale up to meet the increasing demand for home delivery and opens up the courier work for a whole new workforce who no longer need to drive or own a vehicle.”
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