Dachser is seeking innovative solutions for the last-mile delivery segment in major European metropolises. Recently, the operator launched a project aimed at improving deliveries in Paris. Its goal is to develop an urban distribution model tailored to the decreasing number of access roads to city centers and increasingly restrictive emission limits in these areas.
The catalyst for the project was the strategic Idea2net program, through which Dachser focuses on seeking future-oriented innovations for its network.
The development of large cities is accompanied by numerous barriers. The main problems are multi-kilometer traffic jams, a shortage of parking spaces, and restrictions in the form of low-emission zones. In large cities, this is particularly visible during rush hours, when all urban traffic is concentrated in one area. The result is not only traffic congestion but also air pollution.
– Major cities such as Paris, London, or Copenhagen are aware of these problems and are looking for solutions. We want to use our knowledge and experience to contribute to this. We have just started a pilot project in Paris, precisely focused on these issues – says Stefan Hohm, Director Corporate Solutions, Research & Development.
– The French capital is an “excellent place” for us where Dachser can test completely new methods of urban delivery. All information gathered will be incorporated into the IT tools used by our branches around the world, which are looking for solutions to the challenges that logistics must face now and will face in the future – comments Stefan Hohm.
Dachser’s activities focus on new technologies and delivery methods that will not contribute to traffic congestion and air pollution. One proposal is the creation of micro-hubs, from which shipments are collected at night and delivered to shops and shopping centers in the city using special low-emission vehicles. As part of the test, Dachser is carrying out deliveries in Paris using electric delivery vans as well as electric cargo bikes. These are good solutions for small, high-frequency deliveries. Due to their low noise and emission levels, they may become the preferred form of delivery in city centers. However, this requires the prior creation of appropriate infrastructure adapted to the specifics of the equipment. Electric delivery vans have a range of approx. 100 kilometers, after which they need to be recharged. This alone means the necessity of a fresh look at the issue of micro-hub locations.
– Urban logistics is a complex challenge, which makes it particularly exciting and attractive. There are no simple solutions that can be adapted to every situation. What we need are intelligent solutions and robust systems with which we can cope in various situations. We want to develop ways of acting responsibly for the future, not just for Paris. This is exactly what our team is working on – every day, with great enthusiasm and commitment – comments Stefan Hohm.