Cost Optimization Of Multimodal Distribution Chain Using Electric Vehicles

This study develops a model of cost optimization of multimodal delivery chain using electric vehicle in Rome. Goods are consolidated in a center located outside the urban area, are transported from this on shuttle trains to a distribution center located inside the central area of the city (Multimodal Urban Distribution Center), and are finally transferred from rail to green, by using electric vehicles to reach their final destination. In this process, we have to consider the synchronization of train schedule with the time window of delivery that has been set, number of fleet available and also wagon capacity of the fleet, since the capacity of the wagon is huge, while the capacity of the electric vehicle is significantly different in scale. As the problem of city logistics is recently increasing, the optimal solution for efficient vehicle delivery model is really needed. The research objectives will be accomplished through the building of the model and also by conducting some simulations to show the behavior of the proposed model. The research attempt obtain the optimal configuration of delivery trip that minimize the operation cost of multimodal distribution chain