DHL renews Formula 1 partnership, doubles biofuel-powered truck fleet

In News3 MinutesBy NZ Trucking magazineMarch 1, 2024

DHL and Formula 1 have announced a multi-year extension of their partnership, continuing the delivery of the FIA Formula One World Championship events worldwide.

With more than 40 years of expertise in motorsports logistics, DHL celebrates its 20th anniversary as Formula 1’s Official Logistics Partner, making it the sport’s longest standing Global Partner.

The partnership has seen the transition into a more sustainable era of transport and logistics as Formula 1 looks to reach its Net Zero goal by 2030. Following the successful introduction of biofuel-powered trucks last year during the European leg of the season, the number of trucks has more than doubled this year to a total of 37. Each truck, on average, achieves an 83% reduction in carbon emissions compared to their diesel-driven counterpart.

“Both companies share a strong commitment to sustainability goals and a common vision to make the sport greener and more efficient. As a pioneer in sustainable logistics, we are delighted to maintain our collaboration with Formula 1 in achieving these objectives together,” said Arjan Sissing, Global Head of Brand Marketing at DHL Group.

During their 20-year partnership, Formula 1 and DHL have experienced significant transformation, notably an expanded calendar, which this year features 24 races and has been rationalised to create a better flow of races in certain regions to reduce freight distance travelled between events.

The most notable change however occurred in 2019 when Formula 1 announced its Net Zero target, in which DHL’s world-leading multimodal logistics, incorporating road, air and sea freight, are a key factor in reducing logistics-related carbon emissions. Leading the charge in green logistics, in addition to the introduction of the biofuel-powered trucks last year, DHL has utilised fuel-efficient Boeing 777 aircrafts in its operations.

Jonny Haworth, Director of commercial partnerships at Formula,1 added: “Our partnership has seen the sport transform in more ways than one, and DHL have been hugely supportive in our transition to a more sustainable sport, and this will continue to be key as we move towards 2030. As sustainable logistics continues to develop, I look forward to seeing the positive impact and innovations that come next.