Electric delivery vans belonging to Shentong Express are pictured, March 21. [Photo/IC]

The city of Nantong in Jiangsu province is set to be a pioneer in using new energy vehicles for delivery services, according to an announcement by the city’s post bureau and public security department on March 21. 

A total of 55 electric vans will be put into operation for delivery services by three logistics companies –– Shentong Express, Tiantian Express and Baishi Express.

We have rented 25 electric vans and we intend to use them to serve Qidong and Nantong Economic and Technological Development Zone during a trial period, said Sun Xiaoyong, manager of Baishi Express’ Nantong branch.

Sun noted that the new vehicles are much safer than the tricycles and refitted vehicles that were used before.

The vehicle can run up to 250 kilometers on one charge, which is enough to meet our daily demand, Sun said.