An innovative electrical vehicle delivery system for Toulouse and Bordeaux

摘要

The increase in the volume of goods to be delivered and sent in dense urban centers, added to the continuing growth in general circulation, results in the relentless deterioration of circulation conditions for the greater part of our urban road networks. A steady increase in nuisances of all sorts (noise, dust, pollution, occupation of public space…) creates additional difficulties for the organization of deliveries. The French Urban Circulation Plans (Plans de Déplacements Urbains) required by the 1996 Air Quality law, singled out the problem of goods transport and deliveries as major elements of urban circulation requiring specific and urgent attention. SNCF, France’s largest operator of freight and passenger transport, with the support of numerous Local Authorities, intends to offer shipping providers and managers with innovative transport links and multi-modal logistical solutions adapted to dense urban situations. Shipments varying from several packages to train-loads of goods will be received by multiservice platforms situated in or near central freight yards. Distribution to relative close final destinations will be ensured by road-going, silent, non-polluting electrical vehicles. City center platforms could offer support services to both shippers and shop-owners: storage facilities, final destination delivery, recuperation of packing materials, the provision of showrooms… EDF, major European provider of electricity and associated services, is SNCF’s partner: For electrical and thermal engineering, For the design, provision and maintenance of electrical vans and lorries – in liaison with vehicle manufacturers. Vehicles will be equipped with GPS and centralized real-time battery maintenance surveillance, permitting dynamic re-routing (by telephone, internet…) for goods deliveries or deposits. Liaison with Municipal services (Police, Mayor’s office…) should facilitate access to designated delivery parking areas.