Battery-Electric Vehicle Refrigerated Transport

Open Access
- Author:
- Kabi, Krish
- Area of Honors:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Degree:
- Bachelor of Science
- Document Type:
- Thesis
- Thesis Supervisors:
- Bo Cheng, Thesis Supervisor
Bo Cheng, Thesis Honors Advisor
Alexander S Rattner, Faculty Reader - Keywords:
- Refrigerated transport
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
opportunity charging
cold supply chain
environmental impact
sustainable solutions
mileage range
charging infrastructure
operational efficiency. - Abstract:
- This research delves into the transformative potential of Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) technology in refrigerated transport, addressing the significant challenges faced by the industry. The aim is to assess the viability and sustainability of BEV refrigerated transport while providing practical insights into its implications for the industry and its contribution to sustainable transportation. A mixed-methods approach was employed to investigate the practicality of BEV refrigerated transport. Qualitative insights were drawn from a major US-based grocery retailer affiliated with Volvo Trucks. This was complemented by quantitative analysis of historical engine idle time records and weekly mileage data, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the current state of BEV refrigerated transport. Key findings led to the critical role of opportunity charging in expanding the operational range of BEV refrigerated trucks. Engine idle time analysis revealed that substantial idling time can be harnessed for this purpose. Moreover, the average daily mileage distribution highlights the limitations of existing OEM electric trucks, emphasizing the necessity of opportunity charging infrastructure. Opportunity charging can significantly enhance the total mileage range of existing electric trucks, making them feasible for a broader range of refrigerated transport operations. Specifically, it can contribute to the sustainability of refrigerated transport by overcoming the limitations of existing electric vehicles for long-haul applications. The implications of this research are twofold. First, it underscores the immediate practicality of opportunity charging, offering a solution to the range limitations of BEV refrigerated transport. This innovation has significant implications for the industry, potentially reducing operational costs and minimizing the environmental impact. Second, this research contributes to the broader field of sustainable transportation by providing insights into a practical approach to extending the range of electric vehicles. The findings encourage further exploration and investment in opportunity charging as a viable strategy to address the challenges of electric refrigerated transport.