TUX Mobility wins DHL’s Fast Forward Challenge with solar-powered cargo vehicle

TUX Mobility, a Netherlands-based startup with production in India, has been named the winner of DHL’s latest Fast Forward Challenge: Sustainable Solutions APAC Edition.

The competition, which took place in Singapore at the DHL Era of Sustainable Logistics Asia Pacific Chapter, seeks to identify innovative solutions that can enhance the logistics and supply chain industry, particularly in terms of sustainability.

TUX Mobility stood out with its development of the world’s first solar-powered light electric cargo vehicle, capable of charging itself while on the move.

The vehicle is designed to provide a sustainable alternative for last-mile delivery, a sector under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint amid the rapid growth of e-commerce and on-demand services.

Competing against two other finalists—Planet Protector, which replaces polystyrene with sheep wool for insulation, and BANF, an Internet of Things startup focusing on reducing fuel consumption through tire sensors—TUX Mobility secured the top spot in the competition.

DHL officials noted that the startup’s innovation aligns with the growing demand for low-carbon delivery solutions in the logistics industry.

Katja Busch, Chief Commercial Officer at DHL, highlighted the importance of sustainable logistics in the current global climate. “A sustainable economy needs sustainable logistics.

The latest Fast Forward Challenge aims to connect innovative startups offering viable, sustainable solutions for logistics and supply chains with DHL,” she said. Busch also emphasized the company’s commitment to working with all finalists to implement some of their solutions across the Asia Pacific region.

The Fast Forward Challenge saw submissions from businesses and innovators worldwide, with a significant portion—28%—focusing on more sustainable packaging and containers.

Another 22% of entries aimed to improve the carbon footprint of transport services, while 15% targeted sustainability within the built environment.

TUX Mobility’s victory in the challenge will see them collaborate with DHL on a pilot project in the Asia Pacific region, where they will receive expert support from DHL’s innovation team.

This project is expected to explore the broader implementation of their solar-powered cargo vehicle in real-world logistics operations.

“We are thrilled to have won this Fast Forward Challenge,” said Laurens Janssen, co-founder of TUX Mobility.

“This recognition gives us the confidence to continue developing solar mobility solutions that could transform global logistics and contribute to reducing carbon emissions.”

The Fast Forward Challenge is part of DHL’s broader strategy to foster innovation and sustainability in logistics.

As the company continues to explore and implement sustainable practices, initiatives like this competition play a crucial role in advancing the industry’s transition to lower carbon emissions.