OAK PARK, MI, April 1 /PRNewswire/ - Azure Dynamics Corporation (TSX: AZD)(OTC: AZDDF), a world leader in the development and production of hybrid electric and electric components and powertrain systems for commercial vehicles, today confirmed that its products will comprise a new DHL 80-vehicle "green" fleet in Manhattan.  The DHL fleet includes 50 Balance^TM Hybrid Electric powertrains to be retrofitted on existing Ford E450 chassis and 30 Transit Connect Electric vans.

The Azure-provided DHL vehicles are part of DHL's comprehensive GoGreen program which aims at adding fuel-efficient, hybrid, electric or aerodynamically modified vehicles to its fleet worldwide. The DHL announcement was made by Frank Appel, Chief Executive Officer of Deutsche Post DHL, at a press event held in New York City.

"As the DHL acquisition shows, Azure can place both its hybrid electric and electric powertrain technologies within the same fleet to accomplish different logistical needs," said Scott Harrison, Azure CEO.  "Our Balance ^TM Hybrid Electric product is already a market leader in the medium duty hybrid commercial truck segment, and the Transit Connect Electric will create new synergies for existing and potential clients."

The multi-million dollar investment in the modern, environmentally-friendly Azure-powered vehicles is an integral part of the Deutsche Post DHL Group's global GoGreen strategy, which has the goal of improving the company's carbon efficiency worldwide by 30 percent by 2020, compared to 2007 base levels. In a large metropolitan area like New York City, this fleet investment allows DHL to serve customers with sustainable solutions and improved resource efficiency.

"Sustainability, especially the reduction of carbon emissions, is a central aspect of our business and an integral part of our corporate strategy. As the global leader in logistics we are ideally positioned to foster climate protection in order to save our environment for future generations," said Frank Appel, Chief Executive Officer of Deutsche Post DHL. "As customers worldwide are increasingly demanding greener logistics, sustainable business procedures and initiatives like the one we are launching today will - at the same time - also enhance the profitability of our business."

Azure had previously announced the Transit Connect Electric and Balance^TM Hybrid Electric sales to DHL, but could not name DHL as the ordering customer at that time.

DHL's GoGreen strategy dovetails with New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg's comprehensive plan to lower carbon emissions throughout the city.  "Our investment in these new green vehicles supports a more energy-efficient, low-emissions economy," said Ian Clough, CEO for DHL Express U.S. "Having partnered with American companies also represents an investment in the U.S. economy."

About Azure Dynamics

Azure Dynamics Corporation (TSX: AZD)(OTC: AZDDF) is a world leader in the development and production of hybrid electric and electric components and powertrain systems for commercial vehicles.  Azure is strategically targeting the commercial delivery vehicle and shuttle bus markets and is currently working internationally with a variety of partners and customers. The Company is committed to providing customers and partners with innovative, cost-efficient, and environmentally-friendly energy management solutions.  For more information please visit www.azuredynamics.com.

About Deutsche Post DHL

Deutsche Post DHL is the world's leading mail and logistics services group.

The Deutsche Post and DHL corporate brands represent a one-of-a-kind portfolio of logistics (DHL) and communications (Deutsche Post) services. The Group provides its customers with both easy to use standardized products as well as innovative and tailored solutions ranging from dialog marketing to industrial supply chains. About 470,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories form a global network focused on service, quality and sustainability. With programs in the areas of climate protection, disaster relief and education, the Group is committed to social responsibility. In 2010, Deutsche Post DHL revenues exceeded EUR 51 billion.

The postal service for Germany. The logistics company for the world.

For more information: www.dp-dhl.de

The TSX Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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SOURCE Azure Dynamics Corporation