Optimal design of electric logistics with EVTools & Sycada software
Transportation companies face a major challenge. Since Jan. 1, 2025, stricter environmental zones have applied in many inner cities, barring diesel and gasoline vehicles. This is forcing logistics companies to switch to electric vehicles. But electrification of a fleet of vehicles brings complexity: where and when do you charge without disrupting business processes? This is where the POET (Plan, Operate, Evaluate, Transform) project, funded in part by the MIT grant scheme, offers an innovative solution. Jeroen Schutte, EVTools' Chief Product Officer, explains:
"EVTools and Sycada are joining forces to support transportation companies in the transition to electric transportation. Sycada optimizes trips and helps companies plan efficient routes. EVTools adds a crucial link: a streamlined workflow for planning, implementing and managing on-site charging infrastructure. This not only increases the availability of charging points, but also lowers the total cost of ownership (TCO) for logistics companies."
Why charge on your own property?
We asked EVTools' business development manager, Guus Colenbrander, why on-site charging makes sense specifically for logistics applications. Guus points to studies showing that 90% of logistics charging will take place on companies' own premises: "Public charging points are not only expensive, but also unpredictable in terms of availability. By establishing charging infrastructure on their own premises, logistics companies gain control over their charging process. But for much of the day, vehicles are on the road and charging stations are unused. This poses a challenge to a profitable business case.
This is where the concept of shared charging plazas, or "power pooling," comes in: sharing charging infrastructure with other logistics parties when not in use. This ensures optimal utilization of charging points and lowers charging rates for all involved." EVTools' smart scheduling software allows an owner of a charging station to determine when and by whom it can be used. This makes the business case not only feasible, but also financially attractive.
A streamlined process to realization
Realizing on-site charging infrastructure can be complex. After planning the right location comes the challenges around realization. Which tenders should be requested and from whom? What technical and legal aspects come into play? EVTools offers a standardized workflow that guides companies through the process step by step. Within nine to ten steps, a charging station can be operational, including monitoring and management via EVTools' location management module.
Shared charging plazas as solution to grid congestion problem
Once a charging station is operational, companies can see the utilization rate and identify when charging capacity is available for power pooling. This not only contributes to more efficient use of infrastructure, but also addresses the grid congestion problem. By making optimal use of existing contracted power, expansion of the power grid is limited, contributing to a more sustainable energy transition.
Data-driven decisions
The partnership with Sycada allows companies to make strategic choices about the location and type of charging infrastructure needed based on trip data and logistics forecasts. Data from physical transponders in trucks provide insights into routes, charging needs and energy consumption. EVTools combines these insights with data on existing charging stations, rates and occupancy rates, allowing companies to make informed investment decisions.
A future-proof solution
The collaboration within the POET project shows that electrification of logistics is not only necessary, but also financially feasible and strategically smart. By using EVTools' workflow and Sycada's route optimization, companies can efficiently electrify their fleets without operational disruptions.
Want to learn more about how EVTools can help your company realize and optimize charging infrastructure? Contact us and discover the possibilities!
