In recent years, the logistics and transportation industry has witnessed a significant rise in the adoption of mixed fleets. This shift is driven by the need to balance operational efficiency with sustainability goals.

The purpose of this blog post is to explore effective route optimization strategies for mixed fleets. By understanding the unique challenges and opportunities presented by managing both internal combustion engine vehicles (ICE) and electric vehicles (EV), fleet operators can maximize efficiency, minimize costs, and ensure seamless operations. We will examine the specific challenges in route optimization for mixed fleets and discuss the various objectives that guide the decision-making process.

Understanding route optimization and mixed fleets

To create a basis for this discussion, it is essential to first understand the key terms and concepts involved.

Route optimization is the process of determining the most efficient routes for vehicles to take, minimizing travel time and distance while maximizing operational efficiency. This involves considering various factors such as traffic conditions, vehicle capacity, delivery windows, and fuel or energy consumption. Effective route optimization can significantly reduce costs, improve service levels, and enhance overall fleet productivity.

Mixed fleets capitalize on the strengths of both ICE and electric vehicles, offering businesses the versatility to adapt to different operational needs. While this hybrid model provides significant benefits, such as cost savings and enhanced sustainability, it also introduces a set of challenges in route optimization, which requires careful management to ensure efficiency.

Challenges in route optimization for mixed fleets

Optimizing routes for mixed fleets presents unique challenges due to the diverse capabilities of ICE and EV vehicles. One primary difference is the time required for refueling versus charging. While ICE vehicles can refuel quickly at numerous fuel stations, EVs require significantly longer charging times, which can vary based on the vehicle's charging speed capabilities and the type of charger used. This discrepancy necessitates careful planning to ensure EVs are charged efficiently without disrupting operations.

Another critical challenge is the range limitation of EVs compared to ICE vehicles. ICE vehicles can typically travel longer distances on a single tank of fuel, whereas EVs have a smaller range that can vary widely. Factors such as weather conditions—where range can diminish in colder temperatures—driver behavior, and the specific energy consumption profile of each vehicle type all impact the effective range of EVs. This variability requires fleet managers to incorporate more detailed data and simulations into their route planning.

Infrastructure considerations further complicate mixed fleet management. Unlike ICE vehicles that rely on an established network of fuel stations, EVs require a dedicated charging infrastructure. Deploying this infrastructure involves significant costs, including the number of chargers needed, their capacity, and the associated installation expenses. Additionally, the availability and limits of grid power must be taken into account. If your site doesn’t have sufficient power to meet the demand, you may need to request or undertake an infrastructure upgrade.

Addressing these challenges requires a sophisticated approach to route optimization that balances the strengths and limitations of both ICE and EV vehicles. Fleet managers need to account for these factors before they can develop strategies that maximize operational efficiency while transitioning towards a more sustainable fleet. However, understanding these challenges is one thing; before developing the actual strategy, it is also essential to decide on the objectives and constraints that will define this strategy.

Objectives of route optimization for mixed fleets

Route optimization for mixed fleets requires careful consideration of various constraints, such as vehicle range, charging infrastructure, and operational needs. Here are some key objectives that fleet managers may focus on to enhance efficiency and reduce costs:

1. Minimize charging events: One objective is to optimize routes and schedules to reduce the number of required charging sessions. This involves planning longer charging sessions, typically overnight, to maximize vehicle availability during operational hours and minimize the need for frequent, shorter charging events.
2. Optimize for charging costs: If electricity prices vary throughout the day, routes and charging schedules can be optimized to take advantage of lower electricity rates, thereby reducing overall energy costs. This approach ensures that charging sessions are aligned with periods of lower electricity prices.
3. Tailor schedules to operational parameters: Depending on the specific needs of the fleet, such as the number of shifts per day, shift start times, and expected state of charge upon arrival, charging schedules can be customized to meet these parameters. This ensures that vehicles are ready for their next tasks with the required charge levels.
4. Maximize charger availability: Optimization can also focus on the effective use of available charging infrastructure. This involves planning routes and charging schedules that either make the best use of the existing chargers or ensure that the necessary number of chargers is available when needed.
5. Optimize energy management: For fleets with limited grid power, the goal may be to optimize the distribution of available power across chargers. This ensures that all vehicles are charged efficiently without exceeding the available grid capacity.

Clearly defining these objectives and constraints sets the foundation for an effective and efficient routing strategy. In the following section, we will introduce how Volteum assists companies optimize routes for their mixed or fully electric fleets.

Volteum's solution for optimizing routes for mixed fleets

Volteum’s Electric Fleet Operations software is designed to streamline and optimize the management of mixed fleets, ensuring efficient and secure operations. With our tools and expertise, we empower our partners to achieve their operational goals while seamlessly integrating electric vehicles into their fleets.

• Accurate energy forecasting: Volteum enables fleet managers to forecast the energy consumption of various electric vehicle models under a wide range of weather conditions. This precise forecasting allows for better planning and ensures that vehicles are always ready for their next tasks.
• Automated charger allocation: Our software automatically allocates chargers to vehicles, significantly reducing the manual workload for staff and saving valuable internal resources. This automation ensures that charging schedules are optimized, minimizing downtime and enhancing overall efficiency.
• Data-driven operations: By leveraging energy forecasting and data-driven vehicle allocation, Volteum makes fleet operations more predictable and secure. This proactive approach helps fleet managers handle emergency situations or unexpected changes with greater confidence and control.

Our expertise ensures the safe, secure, and cost-efficient operation of the electric vehicle fleet. With the Volteum Electric Fleet Operations software, we help our clients electrify their depots and the EV transition, reducing ESG emissions and aligning with evolving regulations.

Conclusion

Managing a mixed fleet of internal combustion engine vehicles and electric vehicles can be challenging, but with effective route optimization, it’s possible to maximize efficiency and reduce costs. Volteum’s Electric Fleet Operations software provides the tools needed to overcome these challenges. With accurate energy forecasting, automated charger allocation, and data-driven insights, we help ensure your fleet operates efficiently and meets your sustainability goals.

As the industry evolves, having the right strategies and support in place will help your fleet succeed today and in the future. If you need assistance with fleet electrification, contact our EV experts via the link below - we are here to help you navigate the transition and achieve your operational goals.