Which fleet routing solution cuts more CO2?

Discover how various fleet routing solutions can dramatically cut CO2 emissions and foster sustainable logistics.

The push to lower carbon emissions is more critical than ever. According to the European Commission, freight is responsible for over 30% of transport CO₂ emissions as it's expected to grow by around 25% by 2030, and 50% by 2050.

But thanks to advancements in greener technologies, there are ways you can lower the CO₂ emissions of fleets. So what are the various options and how can you determine which one is best for you?

An electric truck docked at an electric charge station.

Plugged in

Electric vehicles (EVs) are fast becoming a staple in fleet management and offer numerous benefits:

Lower carbon footprint: Electric fleets produce zero tailpipe emissions.

Operational efficiency: Reduced noise and lower maintenance costs.

Compliance: Meeting stringent emissions regulations in urban areas.

One area electric vehicles are really leading the way is in last-mile deliveries. Germany has seen a surge in electric mobility, with e-bikes and EVs becoming popular in last-mile deliveries. And IKEA has committed to using only electric or zero-emissions vehicles for last-mile deliveries by 2025.

BeNomad uses HERE Maps to help organizations transition to zero-emission transportation. Their collaboration with companies like Renault Group highlights the feasibility of electric fleets in city centers. The aim is to provide fleet managers with reliable navigation data and accurate EV range predictions to optimize routes, reduce CO₂ emissions and ensure timely deliveries.

A1 advantage

AI and machine learning technologies have the potential to revolutionize route planning, significantly enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of logistics. Key benefits include:

Enhanced efficiency: Algorithms find the quickest and most efficient routes.

Cost savings: Optimized routes lead to reduced fuel consumption.

Sustainability: Lower CO₂ emissions through efficient routing.

IT and freight technology company, TIMOCOM, uses HERE platform to help them leverage AI and real-time data to maximize their customers' fleets, including optimized routes which have led to fewer empty trucks on the road.

How e-cargo bikes are changing global logistics

Going e-cargo

E-cargo bikes are gaining traction in urban logistics. They offer a sustainable alternative for last-mile deliveries, especially in congested city centers. A few advantages include:

Eco-friendly: These bikes produce no emissions.

Cost-effective: Lower operational costs compared to traditional delivery vans.

Mobility: Easy navigation through narrow streets and traffic.

German automakers like Porsche and Audi are tapping into this trend, introducing their own electric bike models to the market.

Neutral impact

CO₂-neutral fuels are another promising solution for reducing emissions in fleet management. These fuels are produced using captured CO₂ emissions, making them an environmentally friendly option. Advantages include:

Reduced emissions: CO₂-neutral fuels have a significantly lower carbon footprint.

Flexibility: Can be easily integrated into existing fleets and infrastructure.

Renewable potential: Some CO₂-neutral fuels can be produced from renewable sources, further reducing their impact on the environment.

Looking ahead, governments and organizations are investing in research and development to make these fuels more widely available and cost-effective.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for reducing CO₂ emissions in fleet management. Instead, it's about finding the right solution for your needs. By exploring and implementing a combination of electric fleets, AI-powered route optimization, e-cargo bikes and CO₂-neutral fuels, you can make significant strides toward creating a greener logistics operation.