Cost Savings of Wireless Charging for Last-Mile EV Fleets

This white paper evaluates the total cost of ownership (TCO) of operating an electric fleet for last-mile parcel delivery using wireless charging compared to traditional plug-in charging. The analysis indicates that a hypothetical fleet of 200 vans could achieve a 50% reduction in TCO through the adoption of wireless power transfer (WPT) technology. Key factors affecting the TCO include vehicle miles traveled, purchase price, and electric utility charges. The paper details how opportunity charging, enabled by wireless technology, allows vehicles to charge during depot operations, effectively doubling charging duration and significantly reducing peak electrical demand. The document also discusses the implications of utility demand charges and how flattening peak loads can lead to substantial savings. Additionally, it outlines labor and maintenance cost reductions associated with wireless charging systems, emphasizing the operational efficiencies gained through automation and reduced human intervention. Overall, the findings suggest that wireless charging presents a viable solution for enhancing the economic viability of electric vehicle fleets.