After a one-year development phase, the first Streetscooter prototype has met Deutsche Post's expectations in terms of features loading capacity and safety standards. Deutsche Post, Streetscooter GmbH and institutes of the RWTH Aachen University have developed an innovative electric car specifically designed for mail and parcel delivery in a one-year development phase to test the vehicle in day-to-day operations and with regard to efficiency and environmental impact, the partners are now moving the project into the next phase: throughout 2013, a total of 50 pilot vehicles will be put into Deutsche Post operations at a number of delivery depots around Germany.

The first vehicles are expected in July 2013. If this practice run is a success, the first vehicle series could follow.  The Deutsche Post prototype for mail and parcel delivery must be able to handle 200 stops and starts and be in service up to 300 days a year. The body of the over 4.6-meter-long vehicle provides sufficient cargo capacity for mail and parcels as well as a robust construction that meets all safety standards.  Conceived specifically for Deutsche Post, the vehicle can reach speeds of up to 85 km/h and is designed primarily for deliveries in rural areas. The vehicle features a 30 kW induction motor powered by a lithium-ion battery and a maximum range of 120 kilometers.

Deutsche Post DHL is a forerunner in the use of alternative drive technologies and actively promotes research and use in projects with various automobile manufacturers. Today the world's leading mail and logistics group has over 4,000 vehicles on the streets with electric and hybrid powertrains, alternative fuels and modifications to engine electronics and aerodynamics.