Title
Towards zero emission urban logistics: Challenges and issues for implementation of electric freight vehicles in city logistics
Author
Quak, H.
Nesterova, N.
Publication year
2014
Abstract
Purpose Electric freight vehicles (EFVs) are one of the solutions to improve city logistics’ sustainability. EFVs, that are electric powered light and heavy vehicles with a number plate, have the potential to make zero emission city logistics possible within the urban area. However, although trials have been undertaken for the last years, large-scale usage of EFVs in city logistics does not occur yet. EFVs are technically possi- ble, but the implementation of EFVs in practice is relatively limited. Design This chapter examines by reviewing current and past EFV implementations, what are the challenges, barriers and success factors for EFVs in city logistics operations. EFVs have especially positive envir- onmental effects, but are overall usually more expensive (especially in procurement) than conventional vehicles. Besides, other technical and operational issues remain to be solved, and many uncertainties still exist on long-term usage. Findings Three main barriers for large-scale EFV uptake are identi- fied. The current logistics concepts are developed for conventional vehi- cles and should be redesigned to fit EFVs better. Local authorities’ support is essential in order to find a positive (or not too negative) business case. And EFV implementation requires companies that want to be sustainable. This contribution presents examples of how some companies or authorities deal with these barriers. Value This chapter concludes by identifying elements that are necessary for acceleration of EFV uptake in city logistics operations.
Subject
Operations Modelling
STL - Sustainable Transport & Logistics
ELSS - Earth, Life and Social Sciences
Mobility & Logistics
Urbanisation
City logistics
Electric freight vehicles
To reference this document use:
http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:b6a3e225-9814-4455-aa71-c3b2b6d9a242
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1108/s2044-994120140000006011
TNO identifier
526088
Publisher
Emerald Group Publishing
ISSN
2044-9941
Source
Transport and Sustainability, 6, 265-292
Document type
bookPart