The energy impact of refrigeration on an electric vehicle depends on its power source and the measurement boundary. Vehicle battery, independent unit, and plates prepared at the depot are not the same energy line.
Write down the measurement scope before comparing. In the active setup, log vehicle battery kWh and separate refrigeration from traction if the system supports it. In the passive setup, also meter the refrigeration used to prepare the plates.
Trial both arrangements with comparable product load, route, stops, ambient conditions, and delivery window. Record opening and closing readings, load ID, door events, and product-temperature data under the applicable product specification on one form.
Total energy per task is the measured vehicle consumption plus the measured preparation consumption. If the meters cannot separate energy, do not label total vehicle use as refrigeration use. Evaluate results only for the tested conditions; range impact depends on the setup and operation.
