DB Schenker receives first Man eTgx electric trucks
On 29 January, DB Schenker took delivery of the first ten Man eTgx electric trucks for long-haul transport. The vehicles, supplied directly from the Man Truck & Bus plant in Munich, have been distributed to DB Schenker sites across Germany. Equipped with semi-trailers featuring an internal height of three metres, these trucks enable high-volume transport with low CO2 emissions. The agreement between DB Schenker and Man includes the integration of one hundred electric trucks into the fleet by 2026. Additionally, the two companies have signed a new deal for the supply of fifty 12-tonne Man eTgl trucks for urban transport, which will be available from April 2025.
Toyota, Suzuki and Daihatsu join forces for a mini electric van
Toyota, Suzuki, and Daihatsu are collaborating on the development of a mini electric van for the delivery sector. Based on a shared battery platform, the vehicle will be produced by Daihatsu using electric technology provided by Toyota. It is expected to have a range of approximately 200 km per charge. The launch is scheduled for 2025. The Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corporation has also contributed to the vehicle’s design, aiming to achieve optimal specifications for more efficient last-mile logistics.
Major counterfeit goods trafficking uncovered in the US
Nine individuals, including truck drivers, logistics executives, and warehouse owners, have been charged with orchestrating a counterfeit and illegal goods trafficking operation from China to the United States, valued at $200 million. According to the indictment, the suspects allegedly bypassed customs inspections at the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles by swapping out container loads designated for secondary inspections. Eight individuals have been arrested, while one remains at large. Seven defendants have pleaded not guilty, while the eighth is set to stand trial soon. The trial is scheduled to commence on 18 March. Authorities have seized counterfeit goods worth $130 million, including clothing, luxury handbags, and fake watches. The trafficking operation is believed to have taken place between August 2023 and June 2024.
Getlink revenues down 12% in 2024
The Getlink Group reported consolidated revenues of €1.614 billion in 2024, marking a 12% decline at constant exchange rates compared to 2023, primarily due to the lower contribution from ElecLink. Eurotunnel saw a 3% increase in revenue, reaching €1.166 billion, while Europorte recorded a 12% growth, with revenues reaching €168 million. ElecLink, however, experienced a sharp decline, closing 2024 with €280 million, down 50% due to market normalisation and the suspension of operations since 25 September. Despite the overall decline, the group maintains its EBITDA target between €780 million and €830 million for 2024, supported by the strong performance of Eurotunnel and Europorte.
China United Lines seeks $96 million from Amazon
Chinese shipping company China United Lines has filed a complaint with the United States Federal Maritime Commission against Amazon, demanding over $96 million in compensation. The claim concerns the improper termination of a contract and the failure to meet agreed minimum transport commitments (MDQ). The requested amount surpasses the previous record claim of $32 million filed by Bed, Bath & Beyond against OOCL for unfair shipping practices.
Port of Long Beach sets historic record in 2024
The Port of Long Beach achieved a new record in 2024, handling 9.6 million TEUs, marking a 20.3% increase compared to the previous year. This figure also surpasses the previous peak recorded in 2021, which stood at 9.38 million TEUs. Imports rose by 24.3% to 4.7 million TEUs, while exports fell by 5.9% to 1.2 million TEUs. The movement of empty containers increased by 26.6%, reaching 3.7 million TEUs. December recorded 861,006 TEUs handled, a 21.3% year-on-year increase, closing the busiest quarter in the port’s history. Meanwhile, the port authority continues its transition towards zero-emission operations, significantly reducing pollution and advancing innovative projects such as 'America’s Green Gateway' and Pier Wind.
