How can the transition to electric vehicles for commercial fleets be accelerated?
THE CONTEXT
In Europe, many cities have planned to ban the use of diesel in the upcoming years. In Paris, the restriction is set for 2024. According to a study by the City of Paris, 20% of vehicles are commercial, such as drivers of delivery trucks, taxis or vehicles for hire. These vehicles are in circulation all day, and run nearly exclusively on diesel. As they are renewed every 4 to 5 years, there is an opportunity starting now to encourage the choice of electricity to improve air quality.
90%
of commercial vehicles
run on diesel in Paris
THE CHALLENGE
Users of professional vehicles are confronted with several obstacles, delaying the adoption of electric vehicles. The main disincentive identified is the immobilisation of the vehicle when it is charging: it is a waste of time and of income. Increasing the speed of electric charging, through the installation of fast electric charging stations, is therefore necessary. Total partnered with Enedis, Leonard, Sopra Steria, the City of Paris and the startup Wintics to better understand the commercial drivers’ needs. A better comprehension of their habits will allow for the placement of charging stations at the most relevant locations. Through the identification of these points, the City will be able to take efficient decisions for urban planning, while facilitating the adoption of electric cars.
THE STARTUP
Wintics builds more sustainable coexisting environments through artificial intelligence. Its algorithms produce detailed data on urban flows based on cameras and predict the use of urban equipment and infrastructure. They are used in order to build smarter cities.
THE PARTNERS
THE SOLUTION
The map produced by Wintics is built on millions of data points relating to usage, available properties and the electricity grid to automatically recommend the most appropriate locations for the deployment of fast electric charging stations for use of commercial vehicles. The solution can be useful for various actors: local communities and transport authorities, charging operators, energy companies and professional vehicle fleets. Tested in Paris, the solution could eventually be applied to other cities in France.