Last-mile logistics

Public transport and shared two-wheeled vehicles are key parts of a transportation system, as are delivery vehicles, which represent a rapidly changing industry. The explosion of e-commerce, traffic congestion, the environmental impact of transportation, pedestrianization and the banning of certain vehicles from city centers all mean that urban logistics need a thorough overhaul. Whether a package has come from halfway around the world or the next city, the last mile is a major headache for logistics companies.

Generally, they deliver packages using large vans, which are unsuited for small volumes and urgent deliveries. Today, many companies understand that these urban vehicles need to be rethought, while also reducing their environmental footprint. Both major international automotive groups and specialist startups are working on the issue. For example, they are looking at electric propulsion methods, cockpit ergonomics, the driving position, the interface with the driver, the way in which vehicles are unloaded, ease of maintenance and upgradability. Whatever their size, those companies are adopting an agile approach, using collaborative platforms that include users in the process of defining product specifications. This approach helps them speed up the development of their first vehicles, which they then can rapidly adjust based on customer feedback.