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Hilti Is Electrifying Logistics, One Truck at a Time

Hilti Group and DHL Freight Collaborate on Electric Truck Initiative

Written by Manuela Mylonas | April 9, 2025

In the construction industry, where energy consumption is high and emissions are significant, we've committed to reducing our carbon footprint. We're on our way to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and our approach is threefold: analyze the status quo, build innovative solutions and convert to more sustainable options. Here is our most recent example. We are converting to resource-efficient technologies and alternatives having a lower carbon footprint compared to existing ones. While we have already transitioned more than half of our sales vehicles to low-emission models, we have now sparked the shift in our global logistics.

First Milestone in Transition to More Sustainable Logistics

DHL Freight is a key strategic partner in our global logistics operations. We have teamed up with them to start electrifying Hilti’s logistics operations with the introduction of the first electric truck. This e-truck seamlessly shuttles between our Logistics Center in Nendeln, Liechtenstein, and our warehouse in Southern Germany, delivering goods to Nendeln and returning with Hilti products bound for Germany.

Our collaboration with DHL Freight marks a significant milestone in our journey towards sustainable logistics. Introducing electric trucks into our global logistics stream significantly reduces our carbon footprint and, at the same time, enhances operational efficiency.

Roeland Baaijens
Head of Global Logistics at Hilti

Own Charging Infrastructure Provides Optimal Efficiency 

The installation of a Hypercharger at our logistics center was essential for introducing the first e-truck. To ensure optimal efficiency, the truck charges during unloading and loading in Nendeln, utilizing electricity generated by the photovoltaic system installed on the roof. This initiative reduces carbon emissions by approximately 150 tons per truck annually. The e-trucks of other freight companies will begin using our charging station later this year. 

The logistics industry is currently responsible for approximately 11% of global carbon emissions. To support the fight against climate change, the transport sector requires genuine decarbonization. At DHL Freight, alternative drives and sustainable fuels are crucial levers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in road freight. We are pleased to have partners like Hilti who share our vision and join us on the journey toward a sustainable future.

Uwe Brinks
CEO of DHL Freight

We launched our first electric truck in collaboration with DHL Freight, with a second truck arriving in summer 2025. Additionally, we have ordered the first two e-trucks, to replace diesel trucks in our own fleet. In general, we shift to low-emission options, such as rail transport instead of air freight, where possible and our goal for last mile delivery is to transition to fossil-free solutions, such as trucks powered by hydro treated vegetable oil, electricity or other renewable resources. 

Integrating battery electric vehicle trucks is a cornerstone of our Global Logistics Sustainability Strategy. Approximately 20% of our logistics-related CO₂ emissions stem from long-haul truck transportation. We are committed to reducing our CO₂ emissions by 30% by 2032, aligning with the Hilti Group's ambitious CO₂ reduction target.

What begins with one truck illustrates how collaborations with freight companies and shippers like DHL can electrify our global logistics, representing a significant stride towards a sustainable future.

Learn more

 

Sustainability Report

Our Route Towards Net-Zero Emissions