An Investigation into the Viability of Battery Technologies for Electric Buses in the UK

Abstract

This study explores the feasibility of integrating battery technology into electric buses, addressing the imperative to reduce carbon emissions within the transport sector. A comprehensive review and analysis of diverse literature sources establish the present and prospective landscape of battery electric buses within the public transportation domain. Existing battery technology and infrastructure constraints hinder the comprehensive deployment of electric buses across all routes currently served by internal combustion engine counterparts. However, forward-looking insights indicate a promising trajectory with the potential for substantial advancements in battery technology coupled with significant investments in charging infrastructure. Such developments hold promise for electric buses to fulfill a considerable portion of a nation’s public transit requirements. Significant findings emphasize that electric buses showcase considerably lower emissions than fossil-fuel-driven counterparts, especially when operated with zero-carbon electricity sources, thereby significantly mitigating the perils of climate change.