E-Vehicles for urban Distribution - Why is it not happening yet?

Abstract

In order to reduce emissions within urban areas, a shift from conventional vehicles for distribution and commercial transport would be desirable. Analysis has shown that this shift would be possible, yet it has not happened. The paper describes, based on the analysis of various pilot projects carried out in Germany, which developments are needed in order to facilitate a swift roll-out for e-vehicles for urban distribution. It is described, what the strengths of electric vehicles for urban distribution are, which challenges are still existing, the user acceptance encountered and the requirements towards innovative e-distribution concepts beyond the vehicle itself. Three pilot projects, carried out with logistics providers and commercial users in the Berlin area in the period from 2010 to 2016, as well as findings from a major quantitative research carried out in Germany with over 1,100 participants build the basis for the research. The paper closes in an outlook on how a spread of e-mobility for urban distribution can be supported and improved.