EXPRESS carrier and package delivery firm United Parcel Service has introduced a new generation of its 'brown package car', the P80, to its delivery fleet in Germany, the Netherlands and the UK.

Based on the standard package car layout that the group has used since the 1950s, the new generation P80 is designed, it says' to 'further improve productivity, driver comfort, safety while minimising the impact on the environment'.

More than 300 of the custom-built vehicles will be in operation by the end of the year, replacing some of the currently used package cars as well as adding to the European delivery fleet, which comprises about 8,500 vehicles.

'The UPS package car plays a pivotal role in UPS's operations worldwide and we are continually striving to improve on our existing models. We design vehicles that are not only cost-effective and durable, but also incorporate features which enhance the safety and productivity of the driver,' said Rudolph Schulz, automotive and ground support equipment director, UPS Europe and Asia Pacific.

The new P80 is built according to UPS specifications by two different companies. The bodies are built by the German firm Sommer and the chassis cowls by Italian firm Iveco.

The company adds that some of the P80's key features are its state-of-the-art central locking system, an engine start button and an automatically activated interior light, as well as a non-reflective roof coating that regulates the temperature inside the vehicle.

UPS said: 'With the enhanced central locking system the drivers no longer need to carry a set of keys. A convenient wristband worn by the driver automatically locks the doors when the driver moves away from the vehicle and unlocks them when the wristband is passed in front of a sensor located by the door of the cab.

'The wristband also unlocks the start button mechanism, allowing the driver to simply push the button when ready to drive off.'

Other important features, the company adds, include its enlarged cab area, which provides more space and comfort for the driver, as well as a larger windscreen and reversing cameras.

'We want to provide our drivers with a comfortable and safe vehicle that they enjoy working with. The well-being of our drivers is key to the good service our customers deserve.'