With the growing emphasis on sustainability, many food service operators on college campuses are adopting electric vehicles (EVs) as part of their operations portfolio. We’ve gathered some of our most frequently asked questions about managing EVs on campus.
FAQs about EVs for Food Service on Campus
What are the benefits of using an EV for food service, especially on a college campus?
Using an EV for food service on a college campus – or any campus – has multiple benefits. It offers an eco-friendly method of food delivery, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to a more sustainable campus environment.
The mobility of EVs allows food service to reach a wider range of students, faculty, and staff, including those in locations that are further from traditional dining services. Additionally, EVs offer a novel and exciting dining experience, which can enhance the overall campus atmosphere.
Finally, the operational costs of an EV, particularly in terms of fuel and maintenance, can be lower compared to traditional food service vehicles, making it a potentially cost-effective solution.
Are there specific regulations or permits required to operate an EV for food service on campus?
Generally, the regulations for food service EVs fall under local health department rules and are similar to those required for food trucks or other mobile food services. They cover aspects like food safety, waste disposal, and noise levels. Additionally, permits may be needed from campus authorities to ensure the EV follows established campus policies and respects designated service areas and timings.
What are the maintenance considerations for an electric food service vehicle on a college campus?
Regular maintenance of the kitchen equipment and the vehicle are required to keep the EV in good operating condition.
This includes ensuring the battery is in good condition and keeping the charging equipment clean and safe from harsh weather conditions. Maintaining the vehicle’s interior and kitchen equipment is essential to comply with food safety standards.
For additional peace of mind, our EVs come backed with a Club Car warranty and servicing at a nationwide dealer network.
How do I address range anxiety and ensure the EV can meet the demands of food delivery on campus?
Joule Case lithium batteries power our EV’s food service box. These batteries will power most standard campus operations with 8 hours of continuous and reliable energy. Careful planning of routes and operation hours go a long way in ensuring optimal performance of electric vehicles.
Upgrades to the standard battery are available, but understanding the driving range of your EV under optimal conditions and the impacts of inclement weather can help determine which battery is best for your campus operations.
Can I customize the interior of the EV to suit my food service needs better?
Absolutely! We have two standard EV models – the Godega and the Bun on The Run.
The Godega is our most versatile EV designed to provide hot and cold mobile food and beverage service. The Bun on The Run contains equipment such as a hot grill and refrigeration units for creating freshly cooked meals anywhere.
We can customize EVs for various uses, including retail and catering. A member of our sales team can walk you through additional customization options.
What are the cost implications of operating an EV for food service?
The cost implications of operating an EV for food service will vary. Generally, EVs have lower operating costs due to their higher energy efficiency and lower maintenance requirements. The availability and cost of charging infrastructure may also impact the overall cost of operating an EV for food service.
Nevertheless, EVs tend to have a faster and higher ROI than traditional brick-and-mortar dining operations due to increased sales and lower operating costs.
Are there any case studies of other campuses using EVs for food service?
We have shipped over 70 EVs to campuses across the country. Here are just a few:
- Mica Mountain High School, Tucson Arizona
- Aurora K-12, Aurora, Colorado
- Nashville School District, Nashville, TN
By utilizing a battery-powered vehicle, these campus food service teams minimize their environmental impact and appeal to the eco-conscious sensibilities of Gen Z students. These success stories underscore the potential advantages of electric food service vehicles, including lower operating costs, reduced noise pollution, and enhanced branding as a sustainable campus.
How can I set up an electric vehicle (EV) for food service on a campus?
A sales team member can walk you through the various steps of designing and configuring an EV for your campus. They’ll ask questions about how you want to use the EV, what equipment you need and have access to, and what configurations would best suit your goals. From there, we will provide mockups and estimates on your new EV.
By embracing EVs for food service, you can reduce your carbon footprint, enhance operational efficiency, and positively impact your campus community. With the proper knowledge and resources, transitioning to EV-based food service can be rewarding and profitable. Join the growing movement of sustainable food service on campuses with EVs!