Feasibility Study and Design of In-Road Electric Vehicle Charging Technologies

Abstract

Electric Roadways (ERs) or Dynamic Wireless Charging (DWC) lanes offer an alternative dynamic and wireless charging method that has the potential of giving electric vehicles (EV) limitless range while they are moving. Heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs) are expected to be early adopters of the DWC technology due to the higher benefits offered to these vehicles that are traveling on fixed routes. The goal of this project was to assess the feasibility of ERs in Indiana and design a test bed for in-road EV charging technologies. The most suitable locations for implementing DWC lanes were identified on interstates that are characterized by high truck traffic. Using I-65 S as a case study, it was found that DWC can be economically feasible for the developer and competitive for the EV owner at high and medium future projections of EV market penetration levels. However, the existing substations are unlikely to serve future DWC needs for HDVs. Thus, consideration should be given to substation expansion to support EVs as market penetration expands. Implementing the DWC technology on interstates and jointly with major pavement preservation activities is recommended. Large scale deployment can significantly reduce the high initial investment. Renewable energy resources (solar and wind) deployed in the vicinity of ERs can reduce the electricity costs and associated greenhouse gas emissions.