Implementation of electromobility in urban logistics

One of the most cited barriers to the use of electric vans is their limited range, as a result of battery capacity and the need to recharge. This argument is often made in discussions about the implementation of electromobility in urban logistics. The research study described in this article aimed to verify this question.

In recent years, numerous research studies have been carried out focused on the usability of electric trucks in urban logistics. However, most of the analyzes were based on the general vehicle parameters and simulation approach.

The main assumption of the research study described in this paper was to perform the experiments in the real environment and in relation to real operational tasks. Subsequently, the selected EFV (Nissan eNV200) was used in daily courier service.

It is important that the experiment was carried out in cooperation with one of the main players in the CEP (Courier, Express, Parcel) market: DPD Poland. Therefore, the tasks of the deliverers were the real ones and their performance the critical parameter considered by the commercial partner of this experiment. The results of the experiments are directly related to the practical implications.

electric urban mobility spain
Implementation of electromobility in urban logistics

The results obtained have shown that the above argument is illegitimate. The tested vehicle proved to be very effective in handling courier deliveries. In practice, there was no need to charge the battery. In addition, the vehicle was often able to perform its prescribed work tasks for two working days before the battery had to be recharged.

In addition, the long drive after returning to camp convinced the drivers of the electric vehicle’s reliability and allowed them to work on electric mobility without question, despite previously reported concerns.

However, it should be noted that the Nissan eNV200 is a relatively small van with a cargo space volume of 4.2 m3, while the cargo space of the internal combustion engines used in the passive phase was between 7.6 m3 and 12.6 m3. At the time of the research study (March 2019), larger EV pickups were not available.

urban electric mobility Spain
Examples of urban electric mobility Spain

However, manufacturers have been known to herald the appearance of full-size electric pickup trucks. Due to the different body structure (much larger outer contour and larger mass), the authors believe that further investigation of the parameters of electric vans could yield interesting results as in the featured research study.

However, it must be emphasized that this is also due to the specificities of the urban area studied and the relatively small distance between the delivery points and the warehouse. Therefore, there is no doubt that the deployment of battery charging infrastructure within the city, especially near delivery points (for example, near discharge points) is required to effectively implement electromobility in logistics. urban.

It should be emphasized that the results of the DPD Poland investigation were used as valuable data for decision makers. Based on this, it can be decided how EFS can be used efficiently in urban freight transport.

In fact, tests continue with other types of vehicles. It helps make decisions to improve the structure of the vehicle fleet, taking into account the delivery specifications (for example, types of packages, operational areas), as well as the parameters of the vehicle and the availability of the charging infrastructure, etc.

The results presented in the paper could be of value to logistics operators, postal operators and other stakeholders in the CEP market. It can help improve vehicle fleets in the context of developing sustainable last-mile delivery systems. Again, these results could be valuable to city decision makers during the creation of sustainable urban logistics plans.

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