Special Tui EV to be supplied in latest sustainability drive 

Car firm Smart is to develop a special electric vehicle model for Tui Group as part of the company’s sustainability drive.

Europe’s largest travel firm revealed plans to have charging points for EVs available at 1,000 hotels worldwide by 2030 in a bid to cut CO₂ emissions in ground transportation.

Additionally, the share of EVs in Tui’s total vehicle fleet will rise to as much as 90% by the end of the decade.

Smart, jointly owned by Mercedes-Benz and the Chinese Geely Automobile Group, will initially offer special models for two existing electric models with an electric SUV also set to be available as a Tui special model from the summer. 

The vehicle will be available in Tui colours and equipped with the travel group’s accessories. The navigation system will display the nearest Tui travel agency or Tui hotel, among other elements.

“The special edition model will offer attractive terms for Tui employees, family and friends, and Tui customers,” the group said.

"Details on prices and features will be announced in the next step. In addition to the offers for employees and customers, Tui plans to gradually introduce the models as company cars at destinations.

Tui Group chief executive Sebastian Ebel said: "With this partnership, Tui is not only increasing the visibility of its own brand, but also strengthening emotional brand loyalty. 

“Customers experience e-mobility as part of the holiday experience. The design, technology and responsibility of the Smart brand are a perfect fit with the Tui Smile and its global recognition.”

He added: "We are harnessing the potential of new technologies to drive forward sustainable transformation in our source markets and destinations. 

“Tui is thus making a clear commitment to the future viability of tourism – even though Tui’s ecological footprint continues to be heavily influenced by emissions from hotels, cruise ships and aircraft.”

Smart Germany chief executive Wolfgang Ufer said: "The co-operation with TUI is something special for me. It is credible, based on partnership and was decided quickly. 

“Sometimes everything just fits: attitude, trust and goals. We are combining our strengths to make sustainable mobility a reality - fully electric and with a clear vision. 

“This project is characterised by an inspiring spirit and I am very much looking forward to everything we will achieve together."