A Study on Electric Vehicle Fleet Route Optimization for Last-Mile Delivery in Chennai, India Using Simulation to Minimize CO2 Emission

V Malarvani; R Lumina Julie

V Malarvani School of Management, Department of Management, Studies Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr.Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, University in Morai
R Lumina Julie Department of Management Studies, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Avadi

Keywords: Electric Vehicles, Route Optimization, Last-Mile Delivery, Simulation, CO₂ Emissions, Logistics, Sustainable Supply Chain

Abstract

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity as a green alternative for the last-mile logistics that require dense urban areas like Chennai. Still, problems such as range, charging infrastructure, and operational efficiency need to be solved first. This research identifies how the main factors of operations, routing method, delivery stop density, range constraints, time windows, and geographical clustering could influence the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions of EV delivery fleets. Using a quantitative simulation method, artificial datasets were generated depicting 120–300 delivery stops across Chennai’s industrial, commercial, and residential areas. Two cases were compared,mainly baseline/manual routing and optimized routing using Python. Distances, energy consumption, and emissions were calculated using India-specific grid factors, and further analysis was conducted in Excel using descriptive and sensitivity analyses.The results reveal that optimized routing leads to a significant reduction of carbon dioxide emissions when delivery stops are geographically concentrated, and range constraints are considered. Although windows and congestion may reduce savings to some extent, they cannot eliminate the environmental benefits. This research advances theoretical knowledge by advancing sustainable logistics research through simulation modelling and provides practical advice to logistics companies in Chennai. In general, it shows that EV route optimization is not just a technical upgrade but a strategic move essential to reducing urban emissions and helping India meet its climate targets.