Low-profile EV Charging Solution for Fleets

Abstract

The project goal is to develop and demonstrate a Low-profile EV Charging Solutions for Fleets, minimising the use of depot floor-space, whilst maximising charging power and so operational flexibility. The UK is currently going through a unique period. COVID-19 has shocked society and the economy, whilst at the same time the world must respond quickly to reduce green-house-gas emissions and prevent catastrophic climate change. The requirement for economic stimulus to help recover from COVID-19 offers an opportunity to "Build back better". This project aims to support public transport operators' and emergency services' transition to zero-emissions fleets, whilst ensuring response to rapidly changing requirements due to COVID-19 recovery efforts. Transport accounts for the largest proportion (28%) of the UK's Green-House-Gas Emissions and fleets and heavy goods vehicles consume the majority of UK's diesel and so largest contributor to air-quality issues. Electrifying road transport is a proven solution for the UK to reach net-zero. This project focuses on reducing the infrastructure barriers for fleet electrification, so encouraging EV uptake. COVID-19 highlighted that flexible public transport is critical for COVID-19 recovery, and society. Operators are required to change schedules and maximise capacity in response to changing social distancing rules. However, bus operator's transition to EVs can lead to reduced flexibility and bus garage capacity due to charging infrastructure space impacts, and the time required to charge. This project focuses on developing a solution to maximise operational flexibility with higher power charging, whilst minimising space impacts of charge-points. Similarly, Emergency Services remain key to the UK's COVID-19 recovery. Emergency Services fleets must respond rapidly to critical events. EVs limit responsiveness of the fleet due to charging times. This project will address this challenge.

Lead Participant

Project Cost

Grant Offer

UK POWER NETWORKS SERVICES (COMMERCIAL) LIMITED £57,756 £ 57,756
 

Participant

INNOVATE UK

Publications

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