Mitsubishi Motors (Thailand), Thailand Post and PTT Oil and Retail Business Plc (OR) have signed a memorandum of understanding to study battery-powered electric vehicles (BEVs) for parcel deliveries.
The one-year pilot study will use two units of Mitsubishi Electric Vehicle's Minicab MiEV to deliver parcels to customers in two Thailand Post pilot post offices in Laksi and Klong Luang.
At both locations, OR will install an EV charging station via a standard charging system (AC) for the Minicab MiEVs. The EV usage data and behaviour on the usage of postal transport will then be collected and analysed by Thailand Post.
The training sessions and field visits will be co-organised among Mitsubishi Motors Thailand, Thailand Post, and OR staff so all parties can exchange their technical knowledge and know-how.
The partnership also highlights efforts to reduce companies' carbon footprints and promote environmentally friendly delivery protocols.
Eiichi Koito, president and chief executive of Mitsubishi Motors Thailand, welcomed the partnership and thanked Thailand Post and OR for exploring the commercial viability of electrification.
"This partnership spearheads one aspect of Mitsubishi Motors' electrification agenda in Thailand," he said. "We are trying to develop the electrified vehicle market in Thailand while raising awareness among consumers about the benefits and importance of EVs to strengthen this new market and grow consumers' interests."
Kamput Yukhong, chief operating systems and metropolitan operating officer at Thailand Post, said that the organisation focuses on delivering parcels to customers and actively works on solutions to solve current environmental issues in Thailand.
"Since Laksi Post Office is located near the government complex, where heavy traffic congestion often occurs, we see the importance of EV usage in this location," Mr Kamput said.
He added that another pilot location in Klong Luang is located close to Thammasat University Rangsit, which is just outside the metropolitan area, and covers a large delivery area. This strategic location would showcase young generations of EV adoption in delivery services.
Jiraphon Kawswat, president and chief executive of OR, said the partnership aligned with the OR 2030 goal of improving the environment and achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 because it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and increases the proportion of clean energy use.
"This year, the company plans to increase EV Station PluZ charging stations to around 350 both inside and outside PTT stations to support the growing level of usage of electric cars," Ms Jiraphon said.
"In the collaboration with Thailand Post and Mitsubishi Motors Thailand, the delivery services and automotive industry leader can enhance the parcel delivery that saves energy and is also more environmentally friendly."
