I’m not well-versed on Australian matters, and the knowledge I possess is either self-taught or borrowed. Although I am familiar with electric vehicles (EVS), it appears that these unique, rugged units like those being converted into mail-delivery vans below will prove well-suited for the diverse situations facing the nation’s postal service community.
Australia Post is set to acquire 175 new UBCO Duty all-electric motorbikes for postal deliveries, with the fleet to be deployed across both rural and urban areas. Rugged electric two-wheelers are engineered to master challenging terrain, enabling them to reach remote areas where traditional mail vans cannot operate due to size or accessibility limitations, thereby assisting Australia Post in making vital deliveries.
Following a successful pilot phase during which the electric motorbikes were put through various utility assessments, the decision was made to adopt the UBCO e-bikes.
In a recent statement, Australia Post’s CEO and Managing Director, Paul Graham, highlighted the significance of their latest initiative, which harmoniously balances technological advancements with a commitment to environmental sustainability. “This marks a crucial milestone for Australia Publish, showcasing our commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge innovation,” said Graham. This new fleet enables us to expand our route network, significantly reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and further advancing our sustainability objectives. We’re committed to uniting innovative solutions that mutually benefit our team members, customers, and the environment.
Since its inception a decade ago on a New Zealand farm, UBCO CEO Oliver Hutaff notes that the company has continually explored electric fleet opportunities. The UBCO Duty is specifically designed to cater to companies seeking eco-friendly, low-emission logistics solutions that align with their sustainability goals and contribute to a healthier planet. By collaborating with Australian Publishers, UBCO effectively leverages its core competencies in rugged reliability and durability, focused on utilising vehicles for professional purposes. We have successfully designed and developed a vehicle that meets the exacting standards of heavy-duty usage, featuring a top speed of 95 kilometres per hour. Here is the rewritten text:
“These utility bikes will be utilised for approximately six hours daily, five days a week, conveying substantial loads, thereby exemplifying UBCO’s exceptional capabilities and setting us apart from others in the market.”
At a speed of approximately 95 km/h (59 mph), the UBCO DUTY’s versatility allows it to navigate city highways effortlessly while also tackling rough off-road trails that would prove challenging for larger vehicles and lighter-duty electric bicycles alike. While designed to exceed the capabilities of standard e-bikes, this model’s robust frame and enhanced powertrain enable it to transport more parcels than usual.
Built upon the same foundation as UBCO’s standard 2×2 all-wheel-drive electric bicycle, the Duty has proven itself a successful delivery vehicle and utility vehicle for various primary tasks.
Australia’s postal service faces unique hurdles in serving rural communities due to vast distances, low population densities, and challenging geography. In remote locations with limited infrastructure, extended supply chains and increased operational costs are often the unfortunate consequences. Moreover, unpredictable climate events in certain regions, such as devastating floods or intense bushfires, can significantly complicate logistics, thereby hindering efforts to maintain consistent service delivery.
Australia Post relies on a combination of air, road, and maritime services to deliver mail to even the most remote communities. Australia’s postal service has bolstered its logistics capabilities with the introduction of a cutting-edge fleet of electric motorbikes, empowering swift and eco-friendly delivery solutions.
