The European Union has set the ambitious aim of achieving a climate-neutral economy by 2050 as part of its “Green Deal”. Restructuring and reorganising transportation and traffic play a crucial part in the EU’s attempt to implement the 2015 Paris Climate Change Agreement. But, climate-friendly mobility requires complex answers. Today we are diving into alternative drive concepts and their practical application in logistics.
Alternative drive concepts
Battery-powered vehicles
One thing is certain: the electric motor, whether powered by batteries or a hydrogen fuel cell, is the future. DACHSER is already running its first battery-powered vehicles as part of city logistics projects in Stuttgart, Berlin and Hamburg. However, with ranges of only 200 kilometres, these vehicles are still quite limited. As much as it may seem technically possible that battery-powered trucks will be used for regional distribution covering a range of roughly 450 kilometres in the near future, it remains very difficult to quantify this economically. On the other hand, Germany is testing a method of powering electric vehicles via overhead power lines on the “eHighway” on the A1 motorway near the city of Lübeck.
Natural gas powered engines
Researchers are also looking into options for powering truck engines with natural gas, in the form of either compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquified natural gas (LNG). However, there are no major climate benefits from using fossil-based natural gas. Only BioCNG and BioLNG are considered intermediate technologies, but their economic feasibility and suitability for everyday use vary greatly within the EU, necessitating a case-by-case evaluation.
Fuel cells
An electric motor is powered by fuel cells, which turn hydrogen into electricity. In fact, the technology is already well advanced. For example, fuel cells have proven their suitability for everyday use in ground conveyors and have become an indispensable feature of space flight. However, the technology has yet to be proven on the road. At the moment, it is really only prototypes that are in use.
Study new mobility - micromobility at PFH
We appreciate you taking the time to read our blog post on alternative drive concepts and their practical application in logistics. If you are thinking about studying abroad and pursuing a career in this field, take a look at our Master’s degree in New Mobility - Micromobility.
We have designed this programme to help you apply the skills you have acquired with your first engineering university degree in a wide range of disciplines as well as for designers who are enthusiastic about materials, locomotion and lightweight construction. As a graduate of our programme, you will be involved in the development of mobility solutions and will be able to use your knowledge to understand mobility concepts and evaluate them.
At PFH, we make sure you receive a high-quality education while making the most out of your study abroad experience!