In recent years, the logistics sector has been undergoing a profound transformation. The transition to low-emission vehicles is no longer limited to private cars; it increasingly involves vans, commercial vehicles, and urban delivery fleets. This shift is driven by environmental regulations, corporate sustainability strategies, and the rapid technological evolution of batteries.
The Growth of Electric Vehicles in Logistics
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global electric vehicle sales surpassed 14 million units in 2023, growing by approximately 35% compared to 2022.
The light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment, used for urban deliveries and last-mile logistics, is becoming increasingly relevant.
In Europe, this phenomenon is particularly evident. Data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) indicates that in 2024, battery electric vans (BEVs) accounted for approximately 7.3% of new LCV registrations in the EU, maintaining double-digit growth rates. Simultaneously, many European cities are introducing Low Emission Zones (LEZ) or Zero Emission Zones, pushing logistics companies to adopt electric fleets to maintain operations in urban centers.
Last-Mile Logistics Goes Electric
The transition to electric is most prominent in last-mile logistics, a booming segment fueled by e-commerce and rapid delivery demands. According to McKinsey, by 2030, over 60% of last-mile vehicles in major European cities could be electric, thanks to falling battery costs and public incentives.
However, this evolution brings new technical challenges. A primary concern is onboard energy management. In electric vehicles, range is a precious resource: any system drawing power from the vehicle can directly impact its operating radius.
The Refrigeration Challenge in EVs
When transporting food, pharmaceuticals, or perishables, the cold chain must be guaranteed throughout the journey. Traditionally, refrigeration units on commercial vehicles are powered by the engine or the vehicle’s electrical system. In an electric fleet, this traditional setup can significantly reduce operational range and increase energy consumption.
This has led to the emergence of new solutions designed to be energy-independent from the vehicle.
New Solutions for Efficient Logistics
KOALA GREEN autonomous refrigerated containers are engineered for modern logistics. Powered by rechargeable LiFePO4 batteries, they ensure stability, long life, and vehicle-independent operation, avoiding any overload on the alternator.
The batteries are removable and can be recharged via a 230V supply or an external charger, with a full charge time of 8–10 hours. These containers operate across a wide temperature range (-30°C to +40°C), making them suitable for both chilled and frozen products.
From a regulatory and operational standpoint, KOALA GREEN offers:
- ATP Certification for the transport of perishable goods by road.
- HACCP Compliance.
- Programmable Digital Thermostats with Bluetooth monitoring.
These features make KOALA GREEN the ideal choice for efficient, sustainable refrigerated transport, perfectly suited for electric fleets.
Sustainable Logistics: A Supply Chain Transformation
The rise of electric vehicles is reshaping the entire operational ecosystem: charging infrastructure, route planning, energy management, and transport technologies.
In this scenario, autonomous and flexible solutions are key to supporting the transition to low-emission logistics without compromising efficiency or safety.
In the rapidly evolving refrigerated logistics sector, vehicle-independent technological solutions are becoming increasingly vital.
MELORM continues to develop systems designed to support the transition toward more efficient, flexible, and sustainable transport models.
