TY - CHAP AB - Purpose Electric freight vehicles (EFVs) are one of the solutions to improve city logistics’ sustainability. EFVs, that are electric powered light and heavy vehicles with a number plate, have the potential to make zero emission city logistics possible within the urban area. However, although trials have been undertaken for the last years, large-scale usage of EFVs in city logistics does not occur yet. EFVs are technically possible, but the implementation of EFVs in practice is relatively limited.Design This chapter examines by reviewing current and past EFV implementations, what are the challenges, barriers and success factors for EFVs in city logistics operations. EFVs have especially positive environmental effects, but are overall usually more expensive (especially in procurement) than conventional vehicles. Besides, other technical and operational issues remain to be solved, and many uncertainties still exist on long-term usage.Findings Three main barriers for large-scale EFV uptake are identified. The current logistics concepts are developed for conventional vehicles and should be redesigned to fit EFVs better. Local authorities’ support is essential in order to find a positive (or not too negative) business case. And EFV implementation requires companies that want to be sustainable. This contribution presents examples of how some companies or authorities deal with these barriers.Value This chapter concludes by identifying elements that are necessary for acceleration of EFV uptake in city logistics operations. VL - 6 SN - 978-1-78441-062-9, 978-1-78441-061-2/2044-9941 DO - 10.1108/S2044-994120140000006011 UR - https://doi.org/10.1108/S2044-994120140000006011 AU - Quak Hans AU - Nesterova Nina PY - 2014 Y1 - 2014/01/01 TI - Towards Zero Emission Urban Logistics: Challenges and Issues for Implementation of Electric Freight Vehicles in City Logistics T2 - Sustainable Logistics T3 - Transport and Sustainability PB - Emerald Group Publishing Limited SP - 265 EP - 294 Y2 - 2024/09/19 ER -