DHL, the world’s leading logistics provider, has expanded its Electric Vehicle (EV) Centre of Excellence (CoE) network to Australia, bringing with it a comprehensive suite of logistics solutions designed to support the growing auto-mobility aftermarket and the broader electrification ecosystem.
The expansion marks a significant step in addressing one of the key challenges facing the EV transition – the safe, compliant, and efficient movement of batteries and associated components across international and domestic supply chains.
A consolidated hub for EV logistics
DHL’s EV CoEs consolidate existing expertise and capabilities in EV logistics, including compliant international transport and warehousing. This ensures a seamless solution for industries ranging from electric vehicles to Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
The centres provide certified transportation services for the import of replacement EV batteries and parts. Supported by DHL Global Forwarding and DHL Express, customers benefit from access to multiple transport modes, allowing fleets and manufacturers to balance lead times with cost optimisation.
Battery-ready warehousing in three cities
Three DHL Supply Chain multi-customer warehouses – located in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane – are now equipped to safely store lithium-ion batteries. The facilities comply with both local regulations and DHL’s global guidelines for handling dangerous goods.
These warehouses are integrated into DHL’s nationwide transport network, enabling direct dispatch to dealers and service centres. For fleet operators, this reduces downtime by ensuring replacement batteries and parts are available locally, rather than relying solely on overseas shipments.
Steve Thompsett, CEO of DHL Supply Chain ANZ, said:
“We’re so pleased to expand our EV COE network to Australia and to support the development of the electric vehicle ecosystem locally. We announced in November last year that upgraded warehouses in Sydney and Melbourne would house batteries, and now we welcome the addition of Brisbane.”
A one-stop shop for EV supply chains
Fathi Tlatli, Global Auto-Mobility Sector President at DHL Customer Solutions and Innovation, added:
“We aim to pioneer the development of the electric vehicle market in Australia. With the support of our global network, we are enabling a one-stop shop for EV logistics, improving the efficiency of aftersales services for Electric Vehicle players and beyond in the country.”
DHL’s services for auto-mobility include:
- EV-compliant warehousing – flexible storage from short-term to dedicated long-term solutions.
- Warehouse Management Systems – with EDI integration and real-time visibility portals for inventory control.
- Value-added services – including order fulfilment, inventory control, and non-hazardous repackaging.
- Specialised delivery management – covering shuttle services and national transport.
- End-to-end supply chains – combining local warehousing with DHL’s global transport network, including monitoring of temperature and humidity for EV batteries.
- Customs brokerage – ensuring compliant, timely clearance across all markets.
Preparing for battery end-of-life
In line with its Strategy 2030 and New Energy Growth Initiative, DHL has signalled its intention to work with specialist partners in Australia to develop battery end-of-life and recycling solutions. Circularity will be an essential component of EV supply chains as the number of electric vehicles in service continues to grow.
What this means for fleets
For Fleet Managers, Procurement Managers and service networks, DHL’s expanded EV CoE offers practical benefits:
- Reduced downtime – with replacement batteries available locally.
- Improved compliance – through specialist storage and handling of dangerous goods.
- Scalability – flexible warehousing and distribution models that can grow with fleet electrification programs.
- Global expertise – backed by DHL’s established international network for importing parts and components.
As EV adoption accelerates, having robust logistics systems in place for the safe transport, storage and replacement of batteries is essential. DHL’s investment in Australia signals confidence in the local EV market and provides fleets with the reassurance of a supply chain partner experienced in handling the complexities of electrification.
