Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IMLElectromobility is no longer a topic of the future for logistics, but a concrete task to be addressed. From last-mile delivery in urban areas as well as long-distance transport, through the sizing and construction of suitable charging infrastructures, to the second-life use and circular economy of batteries, electromobility is fundamentally transforming logistics.
Electromobility
Electric mobility as the key to future viability of logistics
Logistics is one of the industries that can benefit immensely from electric mobility. Requirements for climate and environmental protection, dependence on fossil fuels, the growing need for urban-friendly transportation, and the transformation of freight and commercial transport are increasing the pressure to act for both companies and public stakeholders alike. At the same time, it is clear that the transition will only succeed if vehicles, infrastructure, and logistics processes are considered together.
The challenges associated with electric mobility are manifold. In addition to selecting suitable vehicles, the focus is on the future-oriented development and operation of charging infrastructure, the digital integration of vehicle, infrastructure, and operational data, integration into existing transport networks and processes, the development of new business models such as quiet nighttime delivery, and the safe and sustainable management of batteries. In these contexts, ecological, economic, and social requirements must always be met simultaneously in the best possible way.
Independent expertise in the field of electromobility
Electric mobility: Solutions for businesses and municipalities
Electric mobility in logistics involves more than just selecting the right vehicle. Fraunhofer IML supports companies, municipalities, and other stakeholders in addressing key decision-making and implementation issues–from strategic planning to concrete application.
- Development of strategies for alternative propulsion systems and electric mobility:
We develop application-specific concepts and conduct quick checks for the use of alternative drive technologies in logistics and transportation.
- Implementation of municipal and urban solutions:
We provide support on issues related to urban logistics and the development of Sustainable Urban Logistics Plans (SULP)s , as well as in the logistical assessment of charging infrastructure and the integration of low-emission solutions in urban areas.
- Enabling low-noise logistics:
Using methods and tools such as SNAP and data from the “Handbook of Low-Noise Logistics,” we create decision-making frameworks for nighttime deliveries, permit preparations, and location-specific assessments of low-noise processes.
- Designing battery logistics and the circular economy:
With InnoLogBat, Fraunhofer IML develops solutions for the availability, safety, return, and circular economy of lithium-ion batteries.
- Network and Location Planning:
Using software solutions such as DISMOD® and methodological approaches like “Sustainable Network Design,” we support transparent decision-making regarding locations and logistics networks with regard to cost-effectiveness, emissions, and resilience. - Fleet and Mixed-Fleet Planning:
We provide support for the strategic planning and phased introduction of mixed fleets, the further development of vehicle fleets, as well as the design of suitable charging infrastructure and the evaluation of appropriate deployment and ramp-up scenarios for alternatively powered vehicles. - Market and potential analysis:
Through market studies, we provide transparency regarding technological developments, market potential, key players, and framework conditions for solutions with future viability in the field of mobility and logistics.
Research fields in the field of electromobility
Electric mobility only realizes its full potential in logistics when technological possibilities are transformed into sound decisions and actionable concepts. This is precisely where Fraunhofer IML comes in: through research, technical solutions, and consulting, we integrate vehicles, infrastructure, and logistics processes into a cohesive whole.
Charging infrastructure
Charging infrastructure is the backbone of electric mobility, as it forms the foundation for the continuous and flexible use of electric vehicles. It enables electric vehicles to be charged efficiently and integrated into existing energy and transportation systems. A reliable charging infrastructure increases user acceptance, reduces range anxiety, and facilitates the introduction of innovative concepts such as bidirectional charging. At the E-Mobility Hub in Wiesbaden, Fraunhofer IML supported the planning and implementation of a multimodal hub featuring charging infrastructure as well as public transit, commercial, and private transportation services, addressing the needs from the perspective of urban logistics. At the same time, Fraunhofer IML’s research is driving forward future innovations—such as battery swapping—in a practical manner alongside conventional charging options.
Battery logistics
Battery logistics encompasses the planning, transport, storage, and recycling of batteries throughout their entire value chain. It is crucial for electromobility, as lithium-ion batteries, being classified as hazardous materials, require specific safety and logistics solutions. Sustainable battery logistics helps to design the battery lifecycle efficiently, optimize it ecologically, and reduce environmental impact through recycling and reuse. This makes it clear: electric mobility in logistics does not begin with the vehicle and end with its use, but also encompasses battery logistics as an important component of a sustainable circular economy.
Electric urban logistics
Electric urban logistics refers to the sustainable design of transport and delivery processes in cities using electric vehicles and modern concepts. It aims to reduce emissions, alleviate traffic congestion, and enable quiet and efficient deliveries, for example through micro-hubs or night logistics. Such approaches promote environmentally friendly mobility and combine technical possibilities with the needs of modern urban logistics.
Low-noise logistics
Quiet logistics addresses the question of how commercial and freight traffic, particularly in urban areas, can be organized to be quieter, more efficient, and more compatible with the city. The use of electric trucks, low-noise loading and unloading equipment, and adapted process and route concepts opens up new possibilities for logistics and can relieve pressure on infrastructure and daytime traffic. Using research, measurement data, and digital tools, the Fraunhofer IML develops reliable decision-making frameworks for companies and municipalities.
Integration of digital technologies
The integration of digital technologies is essential for electric mobility because it optimizes the efficiency and sustainability of charging infrastructure and vehicles. Technologies such as smart grids, artificial intelligence, and cloud-based data analytics enable the seamless integration of electric vehicles with energy and transportation systems. These solutions digitize and optimize decision-making and the implementation of sustainable concepts.
Circular economy
The circular economy and electric mobility are closely linked, as the reuse and recycling of raw materials from batteries and vehicles contribute significantly to resource conservation. The circular economy reduces dependence on rare primary raw materials, lowers CO₂ emissions, and extends the lifespan of the materials used. In addition, concepts such as “second-life” applications, repair options, and the return of old batteries support the development of sustainable recycling and recovery strategies, which is crucial for more environmentally friendly electric mobility.verwendung und das Recycling von Rohstoffen aus Batterien und Fahrzeugen wesentlich zur Ressourcenschonung beitragen. Die Kreislaufwirtschaft reduziert die Abhängigkeit von seltenen Primärrohstoffen, senkt die CO₂-Emissionen und verlängert die Lebensdauer der eingesetzten Materialien. Zudem unterstützen Konzepte wie »Second-Life«-Anwendungen, Reparaturmöglichkeiten und die Rückführung alter Batterien den Aufbau nachhaltiger Recycling- und Rückgewinnungsstrategien, was für eine umweltfreundlichere Elektromobilität entscheidend ist.
“Given the high demands on the transportation sector and ongoing dependence on fossil fuels, the use of electric mobility in logistics is far more than just a question of propulsion. It is crucial to view vehicles, infrastructure, and logistics processes in an integrated manner.”
Daniela Kirsch, Team Leader of Urban Logistics and Electric Mobility at Fraunhofer IML
Electric mobility: our references
Innovation Laboratory for Battery Logistics in electric transportation
The Fraunhofer IML’s “Innovation Lab for Battery Logistics in electric transportation” developed solutions for the sustainable circular economy of lithium-ion batteries, from manufacturing through use to recycling. It addressed all aspects of battery logistics, including safe storage, transport, and innovative approaches such as the battery passport, to maximize the service life of this key component in electric mobility.
Digital Decision Support for Nighttime Deliveries
The “SNAP” (Silent Night Analysis and Planning) project supports companies in planning quiet nighttime deliveries using electric trucks. It evaluates locations based on geodata and time savings between daytime and nighttime scenarios, and assists in the systematic preparation of permitting processes.
Feasibility Study on the Use of Electric Trucks in a Quarry
Fraunhofer IML conducted a feasibility study for Dyckerhoff to examine the use of electric trucks for limestone transport in a quarry. Technical and organizational requirements were analyzed, scenarios for fleet mix, charging infrastructure, and CO₂ savings were developed, and recommendations for a pilot operation were provided.
Development of a public charging infrastructure
Fraunhofer IML supported Wiesbaden in the E-Mobility Hub project by planning a multimodal hub that integrates public charging infrastructure, public transportation, and private vehicles. The goal was to create a charging infrastructure with future viability for approximately 50,000 expected electric vehicles by 2030 and to develop guidelines for other cities to follow.
Sustainable and Resilient Logistics Networks
The “Sustainable Network Design” project is developing new methodologies to make logistics networks more sustainable and resilient. It integrates CO₂ savings, cost efficiency, and risk reduction through simulations and strategic analyses. Companies are provided with tools to identify vulnerabilities in the network and make informed decisions for environmentally friendly and robust logistics structures.
Project ALEES – Network for the City Logistics of the Future
ALEES investigated potential applications of electric automated vehicles for inner-city deliveries, thereby addressing key issues related to low-emission and low-noise urban logistics at an early stage. In particular, Fraunhofer IML developed concepts for the IT software architecture and the networking of multiple logistics stakeholders involved in the project.
Questions and Answers on Electric Mobility
What is electric mobility?
Electric mobility refers to the use of vehicles with electric drives, particularly battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). It also encompasses technologies such as charging infrastructure, energy generation, and battery technology. The goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable mobility solutions.
What are the benefits of electric mobility?
Electric mobility reduces CO₂ emissions and helps combat climate change. Electric powertrains are more energy-efficient and result in lower operating costs because they require less maintenance. Additionally, it improves air quality in cities and promotes the use of renewable energy.
What are the challenges of electric mobility?
One of the biggest challenges is establishing a comprehensive charging infrastructure for both private and commercial use. In addition, the limited range of electric vehicles and the lack of availability of battery raw materials pose a problem. The costs of vehicles and charging equipment also remain high, which affects their acceptance.
What role does the charging infrastructure play in electric mobility?
Charging infrastructure is central because it is what makes electric vehicles suitable for everyday and business use. It enables reliable and convenient charging, whether at home, in public, or at businesses. The expansion of fast-charging and bidirectional technologies also improves grid stability and the acceptance of electric vehicles.
How is electric mobility developing?
Electric mobility is growing rapidly thanks to technological innovations, government incentive programs, and rising environmental awareness. A significant increase in electric vehicles and the expansion of renewable energy are expected by 2030. Challenges such as battery technologies and the circular economy are increasingly being addressed.
What is electrification?
Electrification describes the transition of processes, systems, or devices that were previously powered by fossil fuels to electric energy. In the context of mobility, this means using electric drives in vehicles instead of internal combustion engines. This enables a more sustainable use of energy sources and reduces emissions in the long term.