The light commercial vehicle, or delivery van, is the workhorse of both companies and the self-employed in the economy. And with good reason: it is a multifunctional and flexible mode of transport and compared to (smaller) trucks and cars it is also cheap to buy and use. Moreover, a ‘lighter’ drivers license B is sufficient to drive a light commercial vehicle (LCV).
Planning of LCV networks will move from push to pull. The customers in B2C and B2B will be in control of the final mile; buy, receive and return, anywhere and anytime. They want it all, they want it now. Future transport planning systems will be based on distributed, decentral planning, rather than central planning offering dynamic rerouting and rescheduling. Together with up-to-date traffic information, good planning can be made for the reliable use of the electric vehicle. Information to the customer about the estimated time of arrival (ETA) will be based on real-time info (ITS). Last mile planning will move from being blind to being clairvoyant.
The van of the future for city logistics is a blend of zero-emission technology, smart connectivity, modular design, and urban-optimized performance. Here’s a breakdown of what that future van likely looks like:
1. Zero-Emission Powertrain
- Fully electric (battery-electric) or hydrogen fuel cell, depending on range needs.
- Compatible with urban charging infrastructure and possibly battery-swapping in high-frequency delivery operations.
- Regenerative braking to maximize efficiency in stop-and-go urban traffic.
2. Smart & Connected
- The tactical and operational planning will be supported by real-time and predictive open data. Internet Of Things/5G will offer new capabilities for management of car stock, road safety, autonomous driving (‘follow me’), talking traffic lights, allocating loading and unloading zones and local traffic control by authorities.
- Telematics systems for real-time tracking, diagnostics, and route optimization.
- V2X communication (Vehicle-to-Everything) for better integration with smart city systems (traffic lights, loading zones, etc.).
- Driver-assist or autonomous driving capabilities in confined or controlled environments like distribution hubs or low-traffic urban zones.
- Driver behavior monitoring is key. The driving style and route choice determine the range of an LGV, damages and road safety. Electric vehicles have onboard computers that monitor and support vehicle performance, the status of the journey, the battery and the driving style of the driver.
- Cybersecurity will be a major risk but is also an opportunity in providing new tools to cope with fraudulent customers.
- Onboard ICT will be open platforms.
3. Modular & Customizable Design
- Swappable cargo modules or adaptable interiors depending on delivery type (groceries, parcels, medical supplies, etc.).
- Rear cabin with automated shelving systems or even robotic arms for efficient parcel handling.
- Some designs may include side-loading options or street-level drop compartments.
4. Compact Yet Capacious
- Narrow, high-maneuverability chassis to handle tight urban streets.
- Large cargo capacity optimized for volumetric loads rather than weight.
- Some concepts propose electric cargo tricycles or pods launched from the van for final 50–500 meter deliveries.
- Te delivery van of the future might not be a van anymore, but safe and light electric vehicles, cargo bikes and even engineers walking.
5. Integrated in Logistics Ecosystem
- New services will develop moving away from ownership, to sharing. Logistics as a service (based on the best ‘cost to serve’ options) will be offered by major OEMs, fleet companies and Uber-platforms.
- Public-private partnerships will support smart, and even fast, charging facilities near office buildings, shopping streets, construction sites, and industrial zones.
- Fits into hub-and-spoke urban logistics systems or microhubs. The van is an integrated part of physical internet concepts. The delivery van is only one element of the last mile supply chain starting at distribution and sorting centers (and coming back). Containerization will be leading many innovations to improve speed in the supply chain and reduce the cost of handling.
- These capabilities support new ways of ‘final 50 feet’ deliveries with cargo bikes, drones, micro delivery robots, automated lockers or even people walking.
- Designed for quick loading/unloading in restricted city zones.
Examples Already in Development:
- Mercedes-Benz eSprinter (2024+ version)
- Ford E-Transit with modular cargo solutions
- Volta Zero – designed specifically for urban freight
- REE Automotive’s flatbed modular EVs
- Arrival Van – a lightweight, electric city van with local microfactory production (out of business)
- Citroën My Ami Cargo – ultra-compact EV for hyper-local drops
Supported by ChatGPT