charging infrastructure

Electric trucks (e-trucks) play an important role in reducing CO₂ emissions especially on short distances in pre and post-carriage in combined road-rail freight transport (CT). Using the example of a CT terminal, this article highlights the logistical and energy challenges involved in using e-trucks to establish suitable charging infrastructures and ensuring a reliable power supply.

Due to their considerable advantages, wireless charging systems have the potential of becoming the key market driver for electric vehicles. In addition to their large potentials there are new demands concerning cost reduction of the necessary components and the associated production networks in the automotive industry which must be addressed early on. Therefore, it is the aim of this paper to present the value chains for the new components from suppliers to final assembly lines. The possibilities of allocating the manufacturing processes in the supply chain and the interfaces between the companies are discussed. The consideration of the logistics processes is also done with regards to the appropriate handling and assembly technology.

Drive-train electrification intended to create sustainable mobility by enhancing efficiency and identifying supplements and alternatives to crude oil is integral to many vehicle manufacturers’ strategies. However, innovations in the field of electromobility, i.e. mobility rendered possible by electrically powered vehicles, will only establish themselves when they generate genuine value added for customers and are environmentally compatible. Thus, cost effective configuration of a ubiquitous (public, semi-public) infrastructure that supports the use and market launch of electric vehicles constitutes one of the key challenges and will necessitate support from new planning approaches and models.