Abstract

The transition from conventional buses to Battery Electric Buses (BEBs) poses significant challenges for transit agencies in terms of feasibility and in identifying potential operational issues. One of the crucial challenges is accurately determining the charging infrastructure demand for effective fleet management of electric buses. Insufficient infrastructure can result in operational problems, increased costs, and dissatisfied passengers. Additionally, high initial and maintenance costs, as well as compatibility issues, further impede infrastructure development. Evaluating infrastructure demand and the performance of different charging strategies in various route and operational conditions is essential in addressing these challenges. This thesis aims to evaluate the charging infrastructure demand and the effect of different charging strategies for a Battery Electric Bus (BEB) fleet using mathematical formulations and simulation modeling, specifically focusing on three scenarios: Depot charging, Depot & Opportunity charging combined, and Opportunity charging. The impact of these scenarios on fleet operations is analyzed using Discrete Event Simulation, with Arena software employed for simulation purposes. Additionally, the thesis evaluates the daily average charging costs, considering appropriate assumptions.

The results of the simulations indicate that both the Depot & Opportunity charging combined and Opportunity charging alone scenarios outperform the depot charging strategy in achieving low charging costs. The analysis ascertained that a battery capacity of 300 kWh, coupled with a charging power of 100 kW, suffices to maintain a 100% trip success rate for the Concordia University shuttle fleet under the route conditions considered. However, it is worth noting that the depot charging strategy with overnight charging takes advantage of lower energy costs and grid loads during non-peak hours with proper charging schedules. Overall, the proposed work provides valuable insights for decision-makers and transit agencies looking to deploy electric shuttle bus fleets across different route conditions.