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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Exploring the feasibility of introducing electric freight vehicles in the short food supply chain: A multi-stakeholder approach

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Abstract The transition towards more sustainable approaches in the Food Supply Chain was concretely visible in the implementation of alternative models, like the Short Food Supply Chain. Some authors raise doubts on the environmental impact of this model, in particular for the externalities caused by the transport system, suggesting the adoption of Electric Freight vehicles. By adopting a multi-stakeholder approach, the objective of this study is to explore both the barriers and potentialities involved in the adoption of Electric Freight vehicles in the Short Food Supply Chain, and the existence of a shared strategy at the system level able to foster their adoption. Results suggest that, for entrepreneurs, Electric Freight vehicles appear as a viable option, although more efforts are still needed at a governmental level, through the promotion of public measures in the form of support for purchasing costs or rental rate and offering technical expertise services. In terms of infrastructures, as is clear from interviews, improving the charging infrastructure efficiency to ensure EFVs shift optimisation and increasing the number of charging points are today a priority. On the whole, more collaborative methods should be inaugurated, contributing to a shared vision of urban mobility which takes into account all supply chain actors (charging point operators, automotive industry, rental car services, farmers, and local authorities) to ensure the system works in a more efficient way.