2023-03-13
In April 2022, Alltransport, Rusta and Stadium began a collaboration for a more sustainable transport solution for the containers with goods that are transported daily from the Port of Norrköping to the companies’ distribution centres nearby. That was the start of the investment in an electric truck. After almost a year, we meet with Alltransport to find out if the investment has turned out well.
We met with Anders Wiman Business Area Manager Logistics, Bio & Environment and Sarah Klint, Marketing Manager and started the meeting by asking if they are pleased with the results so far.
“Our expectations have been exceeded. We had to make some minor adjustments to the software in the beginning but that’s about it. The range and capacity have been in line with the supplier’s calculations and we have not experienced any technical disruptions. We had a few days with lower temperatures and then we saw a reduction in capacity by 12-14 per cent, but even that was in line with the manufacturer’s information, said Anders.
“Because the transport distances are so short, no backup charging is needed during the day, so the electric truck is a perfect solution here. The only straw in the cup right now is probably the electricity prices, adds Sarah.
What is the response from customers?
“The customers are very happy! This is the region’s first electric truck and they feel they are achieving their environmental goals. It feels gratifying, says Sarah.
Lack of fast chargers
“Today we only drive one shift with the car, but we are looking at driving two shifts. Today there is no fast charger for electric trucks in Norrköping, so we have decided to build our own 400 kW charger at our office with the capacity to charge four cars simultaneously. According to the plan, it should be ready by 2025 at the latest, but we hope that it will go much faster. It depends on when we can have all of the components in place, there are still delays after corona, says Anders.
Going forward, what are your plans for the green transition?
“We are working hard on the transition and our customers are strong drivers. Many are interested and the ambitions are there, but of course, different companies have different possibilities, and the price is still important. We have several customers coming in and we are currently waiting for two new electric cars and planning for another two to three. There will be a big difference with the next-generation cars that will be able to handle significantly higher weights and longer distances.
How do you see the future in terms of fuels and different types of energy?
“The way I see it, it is clear that electricity is one part of the palette. We must have several energy types, HVO has good environmental performance and biogas is competitive. We have 10 cars that run on biogas today, Anders concluded.
WHAT DOES THE DRIVER THINK?
Tommy Örnerstedt works at Alltransport and has been driving goods to and from the Port of Norrköping for four years. Since April last year, he has been driving the electric truck. We catch him quickly when he stops at the gate to ask how he feels about driving on electricity.
Besides the environmental aspect of an electric car, what other advantages are there?
“Above all, it is so nice and quiet, it’s a much better working environment.”
Is there a difference in how you plan your trips?
“Not really. It’s ECO driving, rolling a lot as with conventional engines to be sure that the charge is sufficient. It is quick to react but otherwise, it is like a normal car.
How does charging work, you don’t feel ‘range anxiety’?
“One charge is enough for about 150 kilometres and the car runs such short distances during the day that I never have to worry. When I’m done for the day, I put it on charge overnight”
How many rounds can you complete in one day?
“It’s a bit different depending on the season, so say between 12-14 rounds a day. It works great with the car and in the Port of Norrköping, and should there be a problem, I quickly get help to solve it”
Read more about Alltransport: alltransport.se
