Conceptual Design of Urban E-Bus Systems with Special Focus on Battery Technology

Abstract

Many cities have announced ambitious plans to introduce zero-emission electric bus systems. The transformation process to electric bus systems opens up a vast design space as different charging strategies, charging technologies and battery types are available. Therefore, a profound assessment strategy is necessary to find a "most suitable system solution" under given strategic and operational requirements.In this study, we present a new methodology for conceptual design of urban electric bus systems. First, the available e-bus technologies are analysed with a special focus on charging systems, battery technology and aging. Relational functional analysis is used to derive a suitable simulation model. Based on the operational requirements, an energetic simulation of the e-bus is carried out, and the required battery capacity is obtained. Subsequently, the design space is reduced by applying a qualitative costtechnology compatibility matrix taking cost and battery aging into account. The applicability of the model is shown for an exemplary realistic operational scenario to identify three most expedient concepts, which are finally validated with an in-depth analysis.

Integrated Approach for the Assessment of Strategies for the Decarbonization of Urban Traffic

“…Lee et al [19] on the other hand, have presented an approach based on reliability-based design optimization that optimizes shared autonomous electric vehicles (SAEV's) deployment planning and strategy to better deal with uncertainties and disruptions. Last, Göhlich et al [20] focused on the optimal layout of batteries in the conceptual design process of electric bus systems for urban applications. All three presented directions of research, overall system design, component optimization and operational strategy optimization have intersections with this project.…”

Autonomous Shuttles for Urban Mobility on Demand Applications – Ecosystem Dependent Requirement Elicitation

“…Rightsizing of the battery is of major importance, due to both its high price and weight. Battery sizing is generally dependent on the respective charging strategy (Göhlich et al, 2019). Since AMoD vehicles operate in a predictable manner and could be able to reject journeys that will exceed their remaining range, a small safety buffer is sufficient.…”

“…Obviously, automation of the respective charging process is desirable. In both cases a high charging power is required to reduce unproductive dwell-times (Göhlich et al, 2019).…”

Integrated Approach for the Assessment of Strategies for the Decarbonization of Urban Traffic

“…Lee et al [18] on the other hand, have presented an approach based on reliability-based design optimization that optimizes shared autonomous electric vehicles (SAEV's) deployment planning and strategy to better deal with uncertainties and disruptions. Last, Göhlich et al [19] focused on the optimal layout of batteries in the conceptual design process of electric bus systems for urban applications. All three presented directions of research, overall system design, component optimization and operational strategy optimization have intersections with this project.…”