Worldwide shipping and logistics provider DHL has chosen London to trial its new hybrid distribution truck.

The parcel delivery firm claims will achieve up to 15 per cent in fuel savings.

DHL Supply Chain has teamed up with Volvo Trucks to produce the vehicle, which has both an electric motor and a diesel engine.

These can used separately or together and should reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions and cut down on noise.

The 18-tonne hybrid truck, which was unveiled in Hatfield, will be under trial for two years and will initially operate in and around London.

DHL Supply Chain UK Fleet Engineering Services innovation manager Ian McAulay explained the truck forms part of a plan to improve the company's carbon efficiency by 30 per cent by the year 2020.