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19 Mar, 2013

DHL Power Bike: Staff Exercises For New Sustainable Business Milestone

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HONG KONG, March 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — DHL Express, the international express services provider, and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), jointly unveiled in Hong Kong today the innovative DHL Power Bike, the first electricity-generating exercise bicycles for logistics operations use in Hong Kong. Developed in partnership with HKUST School of Engineering, the Power Bike blends creativity and sport to provide a renewable source of energy as part of the company’s commitment to sustainable business, environmental conservation, conducive working environment, and education support.

Based on a modified spinning exercise bicycle with a power generator attached, the DHL Power Bike enables riders to exercise while generating power, storing energy in a reusable external battery, with output shown on handlebar-mounted monitors. The charged batteries will be used to recharge the electronic hand-held mobile scanners used by DHL couriers, providing a renewable, sustainable source of energy to handle customers’ express shipments with less carbon emissions.

The Power Bike helps embed sustainability into business operations, using a fun and inspirational innovation to engage staff and students. It was made a reality through expert technical know-how provided by HKUST School of Engineering, a pioneering academic powerhouse.

A total of six Power Bikes will be located at six DHL offices and facilities throughout Hong Kong, providing staff with the chance to use their energy and passion to improve their health and enjoy some exercise. The one-year trial scheme pioneered in Hong Kong will measure the impact of the project, with other DHL offices already showing interest in expanding the program if successful.

“At DHL Express we are proud to share the same spirit as cycling, emphasizing speed, passion and sustainability,” said Ken Lee, Head of Commercial, Asia Pacific and Managing Director, Hong Kong and Macau, DHL Express. “These common values inspired us to develop the DHL Power Bike to help us operate more responsibly. They allow our staff to exercise at work, helping them to get fit, reduce our carbon footprint and help power the business at the same time. Nearly 400 staff has already participated, contributing power to thousands of shipments. Motivated employees and sustainability for the future form an integral part of DHL’s growth strategy and we hope that this scheme will encourage further action among our staff and across broader society.”

Prof. Roger Cheng, Associate Dean of Engineering, HKUST, said, “HKUST is very pleased to contribute to this sustainable innovation by using our expert knowledge and technical skills in engineering. Making DHL’s ingenious concept a reality has enabled us to take this spirit in new directions, as well as providing new opportunities for students through an upcoming scholarship program. This scheme offers a clear example of how the community can actively support the use of renewable energy sources, contribute to a low carbon Hong Kong and encourage others to do their part.”