Electric Refrigerated Vehicle- The Way Forward

Vol-43 16th December,2023

Electric Refrigerated Vehicle- The Way Forward

Introduction

In India, almost 40% of food is lost, and one third of losses occur during storage and transit. When the world was going through its darkest period and urgently needed some innovation. When fully loaded, Boost mode makes it possible to cross flyovers without much difficulty. Once charged to capacity, it offers unrestricted driving range and running costs as low as Rs 1.25/Km. Many cities levy no road tax on many vehicles and on top of it there’s no filter or lubrication cost due to its quality of being electric.

Electric Refrigerated Vehicle is a multipurpose, economical vehicle that also preserves the environment. This is a synergy of two futuristic technologies 1. Electric Vehicle 2. Eutectic refrigeration. All this while keeping perishable goods and medicines safe at appropriate temperature. Overall, this vehicle is a golden egg for the industry.

The transportation of perishable goods has been a critical aspect of global trade and commerce. The advent of refrigerated vehicles revolutionized the cold chain industry by ensuring the safe and efficient transport of temperature-sensitive products. In recent years, the focus on sustainability and environmental consciousness has led to the development and adoption of electric refrigerated vehicles (ERV). These innovative vehicles combine the benefits of electric propulsion with refrigeration systems, offering a greener alternative to traditional diesel-powered refrigerated trucks.

Benefits of Electric Refrigerated Vehicles

Reduced Environmental Impact:

Electric refrigerated vehicles contribute significantly to reducing the carbon footprint of the cold chain industry. By utilizing electric power, these vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, lowering air pollution and mitigating the impact of transportation on climate change. As the global community increasingly recognizes the importance of sustainability, the shift towards electric vehicles in the cold chain is a positive step forward.

Energy Efficiency:

Electric refrigerated vehicles are inherently more energy-efficient than their diesel counterparts. Electric motors have higher energy conversion efficiency, resulting in reduced energy consumption during transportation. Furthermore, advancements in battery technology enhance the overall efficiency and range of electric vehicles, making them a viable option for long-haul cold chain logistics.

Operational Cost Savings:

While the initial investment in electric refrigerated vehicles may be higher than traditional counterparts, the operational cost savings over the vehicle's lifespan are significant. Electric vehicles have lower maintenance costs, fewer moving parts, and, with the declining costs of renewable energy, charging is becoming more cost-effective compared to traditional fueling options.

Government Incentives and Regulations:

Governments worldwide are implementing policies and providing incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles. In many regions, there are tax credits, subsidies, and regulatory frameworks supporting the transition to sustainable transportation. These initiatives encourage businesses to invest in electric refrigerated vehicles, aligning economic interests with environmental responsibility.

Challenges and Solutions

Limited Range and Charging Infrastructure:

One of the primary challenges for electric refrigerated vehicles is the limitation in range and the need for a robust charging infrastructure. Advances in battery technology are gradually addressing range issues, and governments and private entities are investing in expanding charging networks to facilitate the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

Initial Capital Investment:

The upfront cost of electric refrigerated vehicles, including the cost of batteries, is often higher than traditional diesel-powered counterparts. However, as technology advances and economies of scale come into play, the initial investment is expected to decrease, making electric refrigerated vehicles more accessible to a broader range of businesses.

Technology Integration:

Integrating advanced refrigeration systems with electric vehicles requires careful engineering to ensure optimal performance. Collaborations between electric vehicle manufacturers and cold chain technology providers are essential to develop seamless and efficient solutions that meet the specific requirements of transporting perishable goods.

Conclusion

Electric refrigerated vehicles represent a promising solution for the cold chain industry, aligning with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices. The ongoing advancements in electric vehicle technology, coupled with supportive government policies and increased environmental awareness, are propelling the transition towards greener and more efficient cold chain transportation. As the industry continues to innovate, electric refrigerated vehicles are poised to play a pivotal role in creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for the transportation of perishable goods.