Battery Pack Prospects for Long-Haul Transport Trucks Considering Electrified Highways and Megawatt Charging

Abstract

The economics of long haul trucking on both continuous and intermittent Electric Highways were evaluated from a technical perspective as alternatives to using conventional megawatt chargers. The study revealed complex and sensitive interplay between the various technical factors related to the vehicle, its battery pack and the configuration and construction of the electrified highway. Key preliminary outcomes showed that a 250 kW highway power supply level allows a 36 tonne truck to drive continuously without requiring off-road recharging, and it can operate with a battery pack of about 50% of the size required for a truck only using megawatt charging. For now, while there is no overwhelming case in favour of any particular technology, the study serves to highlight the relevant factors impacting anticipated design criteria for the electrification of highways.