By the end of 2024, it will arrive: DM Logistics’ first electric truck. This keeps us welcome in cities with zero-emission zones. We’re investing in electric driving now, even though the Netherlands isn’t fully ready for a completely emission-free logistics sector. Despite the challenges, we prefer to be prepared for the future.
AanZET subsidy provides a solution
Starting January 1, 2025, dozens of major cities will implement zero-emission zones. New delivery trucks and lorries will only be allowed into the city center if they operate entirely emission-free. There’s a transitional period for existing trucks until 2030. Nevertheless, we’re already investing in a fully electric truck. The AanZET subsidy from the government was a significant incentive, explains Sander Bogers, director of the Exintra Group. “An electric truck is three times more expensive to purchase than a diesel truck. And the cost per kilometer is also higher for an electric truck than for a diesel truck. However, new regulations for the logistics sector mean we’ll have to switch to electric eventually. We prefer to make that switch now, to maximize our learnings.”
Electric transport faces many challenges
An electric truck has a range of about 300 kilometers. After that, it needs to be charged. This means you have to plan carefully. Ideally, the truck charges while the driver is loading and unloading, or outside of working hours. “To keep costs as low as possible, we want to charge the electric truck on our premises or at a customer’s site. Public charging stations are much more expensive, not always suitable for a truck, and it means our driver has to wait,” explains Sander Bogers.
Connection to the power grid
Charging on our own property is definitely preferred. But the current power supply isn’t adequate. “We want to build a new logistics center. The permit application has already been submitted to the local government. We’ve requested a heavy-duty connection that can charge multiple trucks. It’s expected to take 4 to 10 years to get such a connection. Getting a heavier connection at our current location will also take years. If the government wants us all to switch to electric by January 1, 2030, then this needs to be better organized,” states Sander Bogers.
Customers need to step up
The future of urban logistics will be emission-free if it’s up to the government. The AanZET subsidy helps a bit. But still, electric driving is more expensive than diesel. So, the switch needs to happen not only in the logistics sector but also among its customers, says Sander Bogers. “We notice our customers face a dilemma. They want (and need) to become more sustainable, but they prefer to keep costs as low as possible. We face the same dilemma. That’s why we didn’t want to miss out on the AanZET subsidy. It helps us reduce costs and gives us a chance to work with customers on cost-efficient electric driving.”
More comfort and better for the environment
DM Logistics has opted for the Renault T E-Tech. The test drive at Bluekens Truck and Bus in Roosendaal went well. “The truck accelerates quickly. It definitely holds its own against a diesel vehicle. The cabin is wonderfully quiet. And the vehicle is very smooth. I’m sure this will make driving much more comfortable for drivers,” concludes Sander Bogers positively. Despite the challenges of electric driving, we at Exintra see the future optimistically. By quickly adapting, we stay ahead with the implementation of new technologies. We are convinced that we can make a success of this first electric truck, in collaboration with our customers.
