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Tag: electric vehicles

New Nespresso Partner for All-Electric Deliveries in London

Posted on by David Priestman

Nespresso has partnered with logistics company HIVED to introduce fully electric deliveries in London. The collaboration is expected to reduce carbon emissions by up to 76% per parcel, saving 10,000 kilograms of CO₂ monthly while handling 60,000 deliveries. Nespresso’s goal is to provide an “elevated, seamless, and sustainable” experience, with HIVED offering a 99% first-time delivery success rate.

“As HIVED continues to expand its operations across London and beyond, this partnership is a great example of how HIVED can support major brands like Nespresso through its fast, reliable, and uncomplicated delivery experience for customers,” said a representative from HIVED. Nespresso added, “We want to make sure every delivery is elevated, seamless, and as sustainable as possible, which is why HIVED is the perfect partner to help us achieve this ambition.”

Growing Trend in Sustainable Logistics

This collaboration highlights the growing industry shift toward eco-conscious logistics. Leading companies like Amazon, UPS, and FedEx are also embracing electric fleets to meet consumer demands for greener services. Nespresso and HIVED’s initiative aligns with these developments, helping reduce emissions while maintaining high service quality.

A Blueprint for the Future of Deliveries

HIVED’s operational success—coupled with its environmental commitment—demonstrates how logistics providers can drive positive change. As the logistics industry undergoes transformation, this partnership serves as a model for how brands can collaborate with innovative providers to cut carbon emissions while ensuring excellent service.

The future of logistics is clearly leaning towards more sustainable solutions, and this partnership represents one of many steps companies are taking to create greener supply chains. Through efforts like this, Nespresso, alongside other industry leaders, is shaping the future of sustainable delivery services globally.

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Electric Cargo Bikes will Deliver Thousands of Packages

DHL to support the rollout of bp pulse’s EV charging network in the UK

Posted on by David Priestman

DHL Supply Chain has been appointed by bp pulse in a new warehousing and transport contract. bp pulse is bp’s electric vehicle (EV) charging business. It is one of the leading rapid and ultra-fast public EV charging networks in the UK and aims to grow its network of public EV charging points by 2030 to over 100,000 worldwide.

Through the new deal, DHL will be responsible for storing EV chargers and ancillary equipment including critical parts, substations, wiring and cabling at its Ryton warehouse which will act as a national logistics centre for bp pulse. Equipment will be despatched from Ryton and delivered to locations across the country, with a secondary site in Belfast servicing Northern Ireland. By consolidating EV assets across these two sites, DHL will support bp pulse in streamlining its operation for greater efficiency.

Leveraging digital solutions including telematics, DHL will provide real-time tracking and monitoring of deliveries, while coordinating with relevant parties such as electrical suppliers, councils and franchises to ensure smooth and efficient charger installations.

Paul Mason, Vice President Operations, Manufacturing Logistics, DHL Supply Chain UKI said, “bp pulse is delivering charging infrastructure at pace, and our specialist logistics service and the scale of our network gives us both the expertise and capacity to support its EV network roll-out.

“With first-rate training, safety protocols and digital systems in place, we are committed to delivering an effective and reliable service to bp pulse, to optimise its operation.”

DHL has introduced training and compliance processes to ensure the safe handling, storage and transport of EV chargers in line with bp pulse’s safety policy. This includes adherence to independent auditing standards set out by ISNetworld. In addition, DHL drivers have obtained ADR qualifications ensuring they are permitted to handle certain EV chargers which are classed as dangerous goods. Two-person delivery processes are also in place across DHL’s bp pulse operation, to guarantee specific training in lifting and handling EV equipment is followed at all times.

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Transition Tool for Informed Fleet Electrification

Transition Tool for Informed Fleet Electrification

Posted on by David Priestman

Webfleet, Bridgestone’s global fleet management solution, has launched the EV Transition Tool to support businesses transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) or expanding their EV fleets. This innovative solution, the first resulting directly from the recently introduced EV Services Platform, promises to transform the way fleets approach electrification, helping them to meet sustainability targets and run efficient, reliable operations.

In collaboration with leaders from the energy and mobility industries, the Webfleet EV Transition Tool is designed to demystify and simplify the process of transitioning to electric vehicles using a single platform.

By leveraging their own fleet data, customers can assess their readiness for electrification, estimate the total cost of ownership (TCO) for going electric, the operational cost and CO2 savings.
Additionally, they can gain valuable insights into the most suitable EV models and the estimated charging infrastructure needed for their specific operations.

The tool not only simplifies the decision-making process for fleet managers but also allows them to directly reach out to leading energy and mobility service providers – partners of the EV Services Platform. Initially, customers can directly connect to VEV, Heliox, The Mobility House, CTEK, Justplugin, ChargeGuru and Zeplug for end-to-end charging solutions across depots, workplaces and homes, streamlining the setup of charging infrastructure.

“Our goal is to take the guesswork out of the EV transition for our customers, based on their own fleet data,” said Taco Olthoff, EV Programme Director of Bridgestone Mobility Solutions. “By providing fleets of all sizes with a quick TCO estimation, they can kick-start their electrification journey without the need for time-consuming and costly consultancy. Users can then take the next steps to electrification, supported by our network of expert partners, directly accessible within the tool itself.”

The introduction of the Webfleet EV Transition Tool marks a significant step forward in fleet electrification support. The solution utilises fleet data for customised fleet electrification plans at no extra cost to European Webfleet customers subscribed to specific tariffs.

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Adopting EV Fleets Presents Challenges

 

Right Charging Infrastructure for EV Fleets

Posted on by David Priestman

Nicola Mahmood (pictured), Business Development Director of Equans EV Solutions, advises Logistics Business readers on adopting the right charging infrastructure for commercial vehicle EV fleets.

Over recent years, making a conscious effort to reduce corporate carbon emissions and become more sustainable has switched from being a consideration, to something that is essential for every business. Whilst there are many ways for businesses to improve their sustainability credentials, organisations are increasingly considering van and lorry fleet electrification as part of their sustainability strategy. This is reflected in recent electric vehicle uptake figures as at the end of last year, sales of new electric cars in the UK overtakes diesel vehicles for the first time – largely fuelled by fleet and business users.

With roughly only one fleet replacement cycle before the UK’s 2030 ban on petrol and diesel vehicles comes into effect, now is the time to start considering EV charging infrastructure for your logistics operation.

Key considerations for charging infrastructure

Choosing charging infrastructure that best meets the needs of your operation is crucial. To determine the right charging solution, you first need to understand the behaviour of your fleet. First consider the distance your drivers travel on a daily basis. According to the statistics from the Department of Transport, over half of van drivers in the UK tend to stay local – only travelling within 15 miles of their base on a typical day. Mapping out your typical routes throughout the week will help you to determine the required range of your van and lorry fleet vehicles.

The next factor to consider is where your drivers will return to once they’ve been on the road. If they will be returning to a depot overnight, installing on-site charging facilities using AC fast chargers – ideally 22kW and under, is likely to be the most suitable option. However, if the vehicles return to base but need a quick charge before heading back on the road – rapid charging is something that should be taken into consideration. If at the end of the day, the vans are taken home by employees – domestic charging should be the first choice. If your fleet operates different schedules, you might need a combination of on-site and domestic charging to keep your operation moving.

For fleets that cover long distance on a daily basis, likely with lorry fleets, public charging networks provide the perfect solution. Public charging infrastructure is rapidly growing to meet the needs of EV drivers, both private and commercial. In fact, recent statistics have shown that in the UK there are currently 33,281 public EV charging points. The GeniePoint network has over 500 rapid chargers across the UK, with most charging the average EV in under 45 minutes.

To make managing payments easier, many charge point network operators offer trade accounts, enabling businesses to set up an account for multiple drivers and be billed in arrears for usage on the public network. This mirrors standard fuel cards – making the transition from petrol or diesel even easier.

Taking the habits of your fleet and your drivers into consideration will help you determine which charging solution is going to be right for your logistics business.

Delivering charging infrastructure that works for your business

Once you understand your fleet charging needs, the next phase is to get your site EV ready. Working with a dedicated charging partner, such as Equans, can ensure this process is smooth and efficient. Choosing a partner that provides an end-to-end charging solution will ensure you are supported through every stage of your fleet electrification process. This includes full planning, design and delivery of your EV programme, from recommending the most suitable hardware, to carrying out installation works. Post installation, the right partner will be on hand to help you manage and optimise your charge points, provide crucial performance insights and support with monetisation.

Overcoming power challenges

One of the biggest barriers to EV charging implementation is on-site power availability. If the solution identified means that additional power is needed, it can be expensive and time consuming to upgrade the on-site power supply. Innovations such as load balancing and battery storage are great solutions to tackle this problem. Battery storage is typically cheaper than a supply upgrade and can help to drastically reduce lead times. For logistics organisations looking to meet specific deadlines – battery storage can ensure those critical timescales are met.

With battery storage, you can also increase energy efficiency by combining with solar power. By installing solar panels onto the site building and battery storage alongside, energy captured through the day can be stored within a battery and used to recharge vehicles overnight. Maximising these innovations can eliminate the barrier of not having on-site power available and also reduces the investment required – making EV adoption simple and cost-effective.

Start small and scale your solutions

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to finding the right charging solution, so it is recommended to start small and scale up. This enables you to change your strategy if needed and prove the concept works, before making a large-scale investment. Speaking to an expert charging infrastructure partner who offers scalable solutions is recommended to guide you through the process. Finally, it’s important to consider what will work for your business’ specific use case. It’s likely that you will need a combined approach to charging, installing chargers on-site, as well as using public networks. Through Equans EV fleet analysis, we take the time to understand your business needs, and therefore can recommend a scalable charging solution that will work around you.

Cold Chain Electrification Supports EVs

Posted on by David Priestman

Carrier Transicold has begun initial production of a new all-electric Syberia eCool temperature-controlled unit, continuing the electrification of the company’s eCool series and further demonstrating its commitment to cold chain sustainability. Compatible with most electric trucks, the new system delivers zero direct engine emissions and ultra-low noise operation, making it the ideal solution for all-electric urban deliveries. Carrier Transicold is part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), the leading global provider of healthy, safe, sustainable and intelligent building and cold chain solutions.

First unveiled at IAA Transportation 2022, the Carrier Transicold Syberia eCool is available now in limited quantities in both single and multi-temperature configurations and expected to be widely available to customers in 2024. The system combines a front-mounted Carrier Transicold Syberia 14 engineless refrigeration unit undergoing field testing with the company’s highly efficient power box. The power box converts high-voltage current sourced directly from the vehicle’s powertrain into the 400-volt AC current required to drive the unit, eliminating direct emissions without significantly affecting range or refrigeration performance.

“We set ourselves the challenge to develop an easy to install, all-electric solution that delivers low-energy consumption without losing efficiency,” said Scott Dargan, Managing Director UK and Northern Europe at Carrier Transicold. “The Syberia eCool is that product. It underlines our ability to meet the challenges of urban electric distribution, providing an efficient and cost-effective answer to the ever-growing interest among our customer base for operating fully electric trucks.”

The existing all-electric architecture of the Carrier Transicold Syberia unit means the eCool version effectively offers plug-and-play installation when combined with the power box, delivering more than 95% efficiency when converting energy from the electric driveline to power the refrigeration system. The complete setup also operates below the PIEK standard of 60 db(A), which, in addition to its emissions credentials, means it offers the ultimate solution to tightening inner city and urban regulations, while also creating a more harmonious working environment for drivers.

The new Syberia eCool will support Carrier’s 2030 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) goals, which include helping its customers avoid more than 1 gigaton of greenhouse gas emissions.

STILL Converts Service Vehicles to Electric

Posted on by David Priestman

When it comes to sustainability, the Hamburg-based intralogistics provider STILL is once again setting an example: In a pilot project, two service fleet vehicles will initially be converted to electric drive. More are expected to follow once the test phase is completed successfully.

Not only since the “Fridays for Future” demonstrations and the current energy crisis has social awareness for climate protection and sustainability been increasing rapidly. “As a matter of fact, we are being asked more and more frequently by our customers about our sustainability efforts. I am all the more pleased to know that we can answer questions on this topic with a clear conscience,” says Frank Müller, Senior Vice President STILL Brand Management. But this awareness at STILL did not merely come about when the topic was the subject of lively debate on all sides. “Rather, it is an integral part of our corporate DNA,” Frank Müller continues, “that is why we will not be satisfied with what we have achieved so far. Our goal is zero emissions throughout the entire supply chain.”

“Be electrified!” for real
Back in the middle of last year, the intralogistics provider already set up charging stations for electric vehicles on the premises of its Hamburg headquarters. In keeping with the STILL slogan “Be electrified!”, apart from the electrically powered company vehicles, employees and visitors can also charge their electric cars there. The electricity required for the charging stations – like the rest of the electricity, by the way – is supplied by STILL from ‘green’ sources. ” We are thus making an important contribution to reducing CO2 emissions with our charging stations,” explains Stefan Sanny, Senior Director Facility Management & Technical Services.

Pilot project pushes sustainability strategy
With the introduction of the first electrically powered service vehicles, STILL is taking the next step in its sustainability strategy. For an initial period of one year, data is to be collected within a pilot project on how these alternative drives are compatible with STILL’s service philosophy, which is as ambitious as it is demanding. Stefan Sanny: “During this time, we will gain experience and information that we will then evaluate in great detail. This will give us answers to many of our questions, such as: How well does our service perform in rural areas with a less than ideal charging infrastructure? What ranges can be achieved with the charged vehicles? How do different weather conditions affect the range of the e-vehicles?”

Committed to customers and the environment
Based on this experience, STILL will then decide how to further expand the electrified service fleet in the future. Frank Müller: “However, we will do everything in our power to ensure that we succeed in balancing our sustainability goals with our high service standards. After all, we feel committed to our customers as well as to protecting the environment.”

STILL offers customised intralogistics solutions and implements the intelligent teamwork of forklift trucks and warehouse technology, software and services. The achievement created by the company’s founder Hans Still in 1920 through a large amount of creativity, entrepreneurial spirit and quality quickly developed into a strong brand well-known throughout the world. Today around 9,000 qualified staff in research and development, production, marketing and service are involved for the sole purpose of fulfilling customers’ needs throughout the whole world. The keys to the company’s success are highly efficient products ranging from sector-specific complete offers for large and small enterprises to computer-assisted logistics programs for efficient warehouse and materials flow management.

Switch to Electric Vehicles made Simpler with new Tool

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Fleet operators who want to switch to electric vehicles can use a new web-based automated AI tool- the Teletrac EV Readiness tool. It has been developed by telematics solutions, company Teletrac.

In the UK the government mandates the production of new petrol and diesel engines will cease by 2035. OEMs and operators need to therefore find effective ways to transition fleets into the world of electric.

Teletrac’s EV Readiness Tool integrates with their fleet management and tracking platforms. It analyses all telematics data to provide operators with detailed recommendations of where electric vehicles could be adopted into their operation. The tool can analyse the feasibility of switching. It can also calculate the total cost of ownership of an EV switch versus the existing fleet (purchase price, residual value, taxes, insurance, maintenance, electricity costs). It also calculates the total CO2 and fuel savings the business would make.

The EV Readiness Tool will even recommend the ideal EV vehicles to switch to. It can advise on how many and what type of chargers are required to run the recommended vehicles. It calculates the cost of the chargers, as well as where they should be located to ensure no loss of battery based on the trips being undertaken.

The tool uses AI and historical telematics data to provide evaluations for fleet operators. The platform analyses everything, from the average number of trips overall and per vehicle, the distance, regularity, usage times, usage patterns, and time spent moving versus idle.

Nicholas Wilson, Environmental Project Co-Ordinator at Stockport Homes trialled the tool. He commented: “As the ALMO managing the housing stock for Stockport Council, we have targets to have at least 60% of our fleet fully electric by 2025. We need to reduce CO2 emissions and become carbon neutral by 2038, in line with Greater Manchester. So, the opportunity to put the EV Readiness Tool to the test was such a valuable exercise, and the results are strong. It shows we’re able to electrify a large proportion of our fleet. This will help prevent CO2 emissions, improve fuel consumption, and make significant cost of ownership savings over five years. It also advised us on how many chargers to install and where. What’s more, the ease of the evaluation was really impressive – it took no time at all.”

Barney Goffer, UK Product Manager at Teletrac Navman, added: “We all know a major EV transition is coming soon but it’s still an unknown space for a lot of operators. However, in the long-term it’s best practice to start considering which vehicles are already viable for that switch. Where financially feasible we can begin the changeover.

“The EV Readiness Tool’s AI functionality takes the headache away for operators. It uses the power of AI to help our customers go from data to decisions. It very easily sees where they can electrify, making it a quicker, easier, and more informed discussion with internal stakeholders and financial decision makers within the business as to the best road to take towards their future electric fleet.”

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