UPS consortium launches world’s first smart-charging system for large fleet in London
UPS, UK Power Networks Services, and Cross River Partnership have teamed up to deploy the Smart Electric Urban Logistics project. This initiative will enable UPS to increase the number of 7.5-ton electric vehicles operating from its London site from 65 to all 170, without the need for expensive upgrade to the power supply grid.
Regarded as world’s first, the smart grid solution combines an Active Network Management system with battery storage. It ensures the depot’s electricity demand will not exceed the network’s limit and prevent significant investment in network electrical infrastructure.
“This trailblazing solution has enabled UPS to increase their electric vehicle fleet without upgrading their network connection, paving the way for future electrification of delivery vehicles in our cities,” said Ian Smyth, Director of UK Power Networks Services.
The project has received funding from the UK’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles through a competition led by Innovate UK.
“UPS thinks this is a world first, right in the heart of a mega-city. We are using new technology to work around some big obstacles to electric vehicle deployment, heralding a new generation of sustainable urban delivery services both here in London and in other major cities around the world,” said Peter Harris, director of sustainability, UPS Europe.
