DP World has added five Smart Trucks to our Ardagh Glass Packaging–Africa fleet, following the exceptional performance of the first proof of concept unit.
The combination of this cutting-edge Performance Based Standards (PBS) unit includes features which are unique to DP World. Vehicles adhering to the PBS framework utilise innovative designs to enhance payload capacity, safety, efficiency, and environmental performance through less impact on road infrastructure. PBS vehicles can significantly reduce road wear compared to normal heavy commercial vehicles. DP World’s registered design for Lift Roof trailers specifically contribute to faster loading times, increased payloads, reduced breakage, and improved product safety.
Mark Rylance, Chief Operations Officer Logistics of DP World sub-Saharan Africa, said: “The innovative design of our trucks operating in the dedicated Ardagh fleet is a groundbreaking development in sustainability for the logistics industry on the continent. We have signed a further 6-year contract with Ardagh, which will enable us to continue delivering on our commitment to a sustainable future. We are proud of this initiatve which aligns with DP World’s sustainability and decarbonisation objectives to reduce carbon emissions through electrifying equipment, adopting renewable energy, and promoting low-carbon solutions.”
Ardagh Glass Packaging–Africa was established in 2022 when Ardagh Group (Ardagh) successfully concluded the strategic acquisition of Consol Glass. Consol Glass has been a client of DP World for more than 60 years.
In South Africa, DP World collects glass containers from Ardagh production facilities in Johannesburg, using our own electric forklifts to load the trucks, and delivers these glass containers to various customers who then use the bottles in their bottling sites (beverages).
The customised PBS vehicles for Ardagh feature a two-semi-trailer combination specifically designed to transport glass pallets. The vehicles can carry 100 pallets, instead of the 72 pallets carried by a standard truck. They are also kitted out with dual-fuel technology making use of diesel and compressed natural gas (CNG) which is expected to further reduce carbon emissions.
Peet Wessels, Senior Director: Technical Advisor Logistics of DP World sub-Saharan Africa, adds: “This fleet demonstrates transformative logistics design that can help revolutionise the way we transport goods on our roads and represents a significant step towards achieving sustainable and responsible logistics practices for our business as well as for our customers. The collaboration between DP World and Ardagh, along with our collective commitment to practical, cost-effective sustainable logistics solutions, has made the implementation of this fleet possible.”
