Comparing and identifying the barriers of the electrification of last mile delivery

Abstract

The thesis researches the barriers of the electrification of last mile delivery for the light commercial vehicles’ segment. Although electrification offers advantages such as reduced environmental impact and lower operational cost, some challenges hinder its implementation. Key challenges include high purchase costs, limited range, and inadequate charging infrastructure. This research aims to determine whether the size of logistics companies influences the adoption and the use of electric vehicles.

In order to compare impacts, given the size of the companies, logistics operators were interviewed about their operations and thoughts on EVs. The comparison of the responses revealed that smaller companies can be more impacted by the financial and operational barriers. In fact, smaller companies have less resources which makes them more affected by the uncertainties and their perception of EVs. On the other hand, larger companies have more capital to purchase the vehicles and to try to find the best use for them. The main reason for larger companies to use EVs are to meet the sustainability goals they are setting for themselves. In fact, it seems like EVs are still at an early stage in the last mile delivery market, and the barriers are impeding its wide use.