UK parcel carrier Yodel has introduced the first EV to its fleet, revealing plans to expand its electrification as part of a £15.2 million investment.

A Mitsubishi FUSO eCanter has been added to Yodel’s fleet as part of the plan, with more EVs to be introduced later this year. The Mitsubishi FUSO eCanter is to be based at a depot in Hayes and used across London.

As well as EVs, Yodel is also investing in Microlise technology, which monitors factors such as speed, location and road traffic levels. The technology will be used to make deliveries more efficient as delivery routes can be adapted to the conditions.

Yodel’s use of bicycles will also be expanded, with plans to introduce them to Birmingham, London and Manchester.

Andrew Peeler, CEO of Yodel, said: “This large-scale investment in our fleet is designed to improve efficiency and minimise the environmental impact of deliveries.

“I’m delighted that we’ve introduced electric to our fleet this spring, and we have plans to expand our use of both pedal and electric power this year.”

It is not the first delivery company to make a move towards EVs, with DPD planning to introduce 500 EVs into its fleet by 2021 and opening its third all-electric micro depot earlier in the year. UPS, too, has introduced EVs into its fleet, taking part in a wireless charging trialwith UKPN.