Optimal routing for electric vehicles in hybrid charging networks

Abstract

Charge-while-driving technology is a promising application in the future. A routing approach suitable for hybrid stationary and dynamic wireless charging networks is thus worth investigating. This paper aims to determine the optimal path with minimum generalized travel cost as well as provides charging policy recommendations for electric vehicle (EV) users. A hybrid charging network, including charging stations and wireless lanes, is constructed first. The generalized travel cost is then investigated to help EV users understand the complicated cost components. A dynamic programming algorithm is developed as the solution measure. Numerical experiments show that a higher level of wireless charging lane penetration can significantly reduce generalized travel costs, especially implicit costs such as travel time cost or stopping cost. EVs are more likely to prefer wireless charging modes when the value of the user's time and the cost of stopping is high. The methodology proposed in this study not only provides services to EV owners, such as navigation, but is also a useful tool for administrations wishing to direct incentives to facilitate the transition to more sustainable energy sources, as it quantifies the benefits of wireless charging for different network attributes.