Electric Vehicle Technology Development, Energy and Environmental Implications, and Decarbonization

A special issue of World Electric Vehicle Journal (ISSN 2032-6653).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2024) | Viewed by 9890

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Aramco Americas, Aramco Research Center-Detroit, Novi, MI, USA
Interests: connected and automated vehicles; transport energy and emissions modeling; traffic simulation; machine learning; mobility digitalization
Department of Civil Engineering, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
Interests: smart and sustainable mobility; electric and autonomous transportation; optimization; machine learning; automatic control
School of Transportation, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
Interests: transport energy and emissions modeling; transportation decarbonization; air quality analysis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Aramco Americas, Aramco Research Center-Detroit, Novi, MI, USA
Interests: mobility and energy transition analysis; techno-economic and life cycle analysis of transport technologies; advanced vehicle and clean fuel technologies
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue (SI) is open for submissions on electric vehicle (EV) technology development, energy consumption, life cycle emissions and costs, critical material supply and recycling, and these aspects’ integration with other mobility technologies, such as connected and automated vehicles and shared mobility. Submissions should address topics in one or more of the following areas:

  1. EV technology development: history, trend, challenges, and market analysis;
  2. EV life cycle costs and emissions and comparison with other fuel technologies, such as internal combustion engines (ICEs) and hydrogen fuel cells;
  3. EV critical material supply, demand, recycling, and the associated environmental and geopolitical challenges;
  4. Impact of mixed mobility technologies (i.e., vehicle electrification, connectivity, automation, sharing) on fuel choice, energy consumption, and emissions;
  5. Transportation decarbonization policies and their implications for national or global energy demand and emissions, and strategies to decarbonize the transport sector under limited battery critical material supply;
  6. Co-optimization of the transportation system with the existing refuel and charging infrastructure;

Dr. Jinghui Wang
Dr. Hao Yang
Dr. Ran Tu
Dr. Xin He
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. World Electric Vehicle Journal is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • electric vehicle
  • connected and autonomous vehicle
  • life cycle analysis
  • energy and emissions
  • critical material supply and recycling
  • transport decarbonization

Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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19 pages, 9356 KiB  
Article
Design of an Electric Vehicle Charging System Consisting of PV and Fuel Cell for Historical and Tourist Regions
by Suleyman Emre Dagteke and Sencer Unal
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(7), 288; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15070288 - 28 Jun 2024
Viewed by 170
Abstract
One of the most important problems in the widespread use of electric vehicles is the lack of charging infrastructure. Especially in tourist areas where historical buildings are located, the installation of a power grid for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations or [...] Read more.
One of the most important problems in the widespread use of electric vehicles is the lack of charging infrastructure. Especially in tourist areas where historical buildings are located, the installation of a power grid for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations or generating electrical energy by installing renewable energy production systems such as large-sized PV (photovoltaic) and wind turbines poses a problem because it causes the deterioration of the historical texture. Considering the need for renewable energy sources in the transportation sector, our aim in this study is to model an electric vehicle charging station using PVPS (photovoltaic power system) and FC (fuel cell) power systems by using irradiation and temperature data from historical regions. This designed charging station model performs electric vehicle charging, meeting the energy demand of a house and hydrogen production by feeding the electrolyzer with the surplus energy from producing electrical energy with the PVPS during the daytime. At night, when there is no solar radiation, electric vehicle charging and residential energy demand are met with an FC power system. One of the most important advantages of this system is the use of hydrogen storage instead of a battery system for energy storage and the conversion of hydrogen into electrical energy with an FC. Unlike other studies, in our study, fossil energy sources such as diesel generators are not included for the stable operation of the system. The system in this study may need hydrogen refueling in unfavorable climatic conditions and the energy storage capacity is limited by the hydrogen fuel tank capacity. Full article
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18 pages, 11000 KiB  
Article
A Finite-Set Integral Sliding Modes Predictive Control for a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Drive System
by Hector Hidalgo, Rodolfo Orosco, Hector Huerta, Nimrod Vazquez, Leonel Estrada, Sergio Pinto and Angel de Castro
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(7), 277; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15070277 - 21 Jun 2024
Viewed by 439
Abstract
Finite-set model predictive control (FS-MPC) is an easy and intuitive control technique. However, parametric uncertainties reduce the accuracy of the prediction. Classical MPC requires many calculations; therefore, the calculation time generates a considerable time delay in the actuation. This delay deteriorates the performance [...] Read more.
Finite-set model predictive control (FS-MPC) is an easy and intuitive control technique. However, parametric uncertainties reduce the accuracy of the prediction. Classical MPC requires many calculations; therefore, the calculation time generates a considerable time delay in the actuation. This delay deteriorates the performance of the system and generates a significant current ripple. This paper proposes a finite-set integral sliding modes predictive control (FS-ISMPC) for a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM). The conventional decision function is replaced by an integral sliding cost function, which has several advantages, such as robustness to parameter uncertainties, and convergence in finite time. The proposed decision function does not require the inductance and resistance parameters of the motor. In addition, the proposal includes compensation for the calculation delay of the control vector. The proposed control strategy was compared with traditional predictive control with delay compensation using a real-time hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation. The results obtained from the comparison indicated that the proposed controller has a lower THD and computational burden. Full article
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23 pages, 1462 KiB  
Article
Consumers’ Purchase Intention toward Electric Vehicles from the Perspective of Perceived Green Value: An Empirical Survey from China
by Haipeng Zhao, Fumitaka Furuoka, Rajah AL Rasiah and Erhuan Shen
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(6), 267; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15060267 - 18 Jun 2024
Viewed by 419
Abstract
This study aims to expand the current understanding of the antecedents and consequences of green purchase intention within the context of perceived green value (PGV). This study uniquely combines PLS-SEM and NCA to provide a comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing green purchase [...] Read more.
This study aims to expand the current understanding of the antecedents and consequences of green purchase intention within the context of perceived green value (PGV). This study uniquely combines PLS-SEM and NCA to provide a comprehensive analysis of the factors influencing green purchase intention, offering a novel methodological contribution to the field. By examining the roles of influence and interaction as key precursors to perceived responsibility and self-efficacy, the research adds new dimensions to understanding how these factors shape green purchase intentions. Additionally, we explore how PER and PSE impact green purchase intention (GPI), primarily through their mediating effects. The survey data collected from consumers reveal that PGV positively influences GPI. Furthermore, both PER and PSE exhibit significant chain mediation effects, with the mediation effect of perceived environmental responsibility being particularly strong. This study provides actionable insights for policymakers and electric vehicle manufacturers, emphasizing the importance of green education, certification systems, and the promotion of environmental and economic attributes to foster green purchasing behavior. The findings suggest that government efforts should focus on intensifying green education and promoting the establishment of certification and evaluation systems for electric vehicle products. Meanwhile, electric vehicle manufacturers should highlight the environmental and economic benefits of their products to stimulate green purchasing behavior. Full article
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19 pages, 12741 KiB  
Article
Theoretical Analysis of Plate-Type Thermoelectric Generator for Fluid Waste Heat Recovery Using Thermal Resistance and Numerical Models
by Yongfei Jia, Ruochen Wang and Jie Chen
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(6), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15060240 - 30 May 2024
Viewed by 323
Abstract
In current research, there are excessive assumptions and simplifications in the mathematical models developed for thermoelectric generators. In this study, a comprehensive mathematical model was developed based on a plate-type thermoelectric generator divided into multiple thermoelectric units. The model takes into account temperature-dependent [...] Read more.
In current research, there are excessive assumptions and simplifications in the mathematical models developed for thermoelectric generators. In this study, a comprehensive mathematical model was developed based on a plate-type thermoelectric generator divided into multiple thermoelectric units. The model takes into account temperature-dependent thermoelectric material parameters and fluid flow. The model was validated, and a maximum error of 6.4% was determined. Moreover, the model was compared and analyzed with a numerical model, with a maximum discrepancy of 7.2%. The model revealed the factors and their degree of influence on the performance of the thermoelectric generator unit. In addition, differences in temperature distribution, output power, and conversion efficiency between multiple thermoelectric units were clearly studied. This study can guide modeling and some optimization measures to improve the overall performance of thermoelectric generators. Full article
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14 pages, 6608 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Electric Two-Wheeler Ecosystem Using Novel Pareto Optimality and TOPSIS Methods for an Ideal Design Solution
by Kaushik Das and Roushan Kumar
World Electr. Veh. J. 2023, 14(8), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj14080215 - 12 Aug 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1432
Abstract
The demand for electric two-wheelers as an efficient and environmentally friendly means of transportation has increased due to the rapid expansion in urbanization and growing environmental sustainability concerns. The electric two-wheeler ecosystem requires an ideal design solution that strikes a balance between numerous [...] Read more.
The demand for electric two-wheelers as an efficient and environmentally friendly means of transportation has increased due to the rapid expansion in urbanization and growing environmental sustainability concerns. The electric two-wheeler ecosystem requires an ideal design solution that strikes a balance between numerous features, technologies, and specifications to meet these changing needs. In this study, we present an evaluation framework to find the best design for electric two-wheelers using novel Pareto optimality and TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) approaches. These solutions are then thoroughly assessed against predetermined criteria, such as energy efficiency, manufacturing viability, and market viability. Additionally, we incorporate the TOPSIS approach to order the non-dominated options according to how closely they resemble the best design solution. The design solution that best meets the required objectives while minimizing departures from the ideal state is identified using this procedure. Combining these approaches, our framework provides a more dependable and rigorous tool for evaluating the electric two-wheeler ecosystem, empowering producers and policymakers to choose the best design options. The findings show that the Pareto optimality and TOPSIS approaches efficiently identify the non-dominated options and make it easier to choose an ideal design solution that is in line with customer preferences and environmental sustainability. The results of this study support the development of electric two-wheeler technology and promote the use of environmentally friendly transportation options, thereby promoting a more sustainable future. Full article
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Review

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21 pages, 1881 KiB  
Review
Beyond Tailpipe Emissions: Life Cycle Assessment Unravels Battery’s Carbon Footprint in Electric Vehicles
by Sharath K. Ankathi, Jessey Bouchard and Xin He
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(6), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15060245 - 2 Jun 2024
Viewed by 545
Abstract
While electric vehicles (EVs) offer lower life cycle greenhouse gas emissions in some regions, the concern over the greenhouse gas emissions generated during battery production is often debated. This literature review examines the true environmental trade-offs between conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and emerging [...] Read more.
While electric vehicles (EVs) offer lower life cycle greenhouse gas emissions in some regions, the concern over the greenhouse gas emissions generated during battery production is often debated. This literature review examines the true environmental trade-offs between conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and emerging technologies such as solid-state batteries (SSBs) and sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). It emphasizes the carbon-intensive nature of LIB manufacturing and explores how alternative technologies can enhance efficiency while reducing the carbon footprint. We have used a keyword search technique to review articles related to batteries and their environmental performances. The study results reveal that the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of battery production alone range from 10 to 394 kgCO2 eq./kWh. We identified that lithium manganese cobalt oxide and lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide batteries, despite their high energy density, exhibit higher GHGs (20–394 kgCO2 eq./kWh) because of the cobalt and nickel production. Lithium iron phosphate (34–246 kgCO2 eq./kWh) and sodium-ion (40–70 kgCO2 eq./kWh) batteries showed lower environmental impacts because of the abundant feedstock, emerging as a sustainable choice, especially when high energy density is not essential. This review also concludes that the GHGs of battery production are highly dependent on the regional grid carbon intensity. Batteries produced in China, for example, have higher GHGs than those produced in the United States (US) and European Union (EU). Understanding the GHGs of battery production is critical to fairly evaluating the environmental impact of battery electric vehicles. Full article
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16 pages, 2290 KiB  
Review
Opportunities, Challenges and Strategies for Developing Electric Vehicle Energy Storage Systems under the Carbon Neutrality Goal
by Xinglong Liu, Fuquan Zhao, Han Hao and Zongwei Liu
World Electr. Veh. J. 2023, 14(7), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj14070170 - 27 Jun 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2689
Abstract
Developing electric vehicle (EV) energy storage technology is a strategic position from which the automotive industry can achieve low-carbon growth, thereby promoting the green transformation of the energy industry in China. This paper will reveal the opportunities, challenges, and strategies in relation to [...] Read more.
Developing electric vehicle (EV) energy storage technology is a strategic position from which the automotive industry can achieve low-carbon growth, thereby promoting the green transformation of the energy industry in China. This paper will reveal the opportunities, challenges, and strategies in relation to developing EV energy storage. First, this paper clarifies the strategic value and potential of developing EV energy storage under the carbon neutrality goal. Second, this paper demonstrates strategic opportunities and challenges during the development. Third, this paper proposes methods for creating a good market environment and business models. Finally, this paper suggests that relevant policies and regulations should be formulated and charts the course of technology development. The results show that EV energy storage technology has potential in terms of technology, the scale of development, and the user economy. The proposal of the carbon neutrality goal, the increasing market share of EVs, lower-cost and higher-efficiency batteries, etc., have all further accelerated the development of EV energy storage. The EV energy storage field should focus on developing battery technology, make advancements toward delivering longer cycle lives and improving the safety and availability of battery materials, and ramp up the R&D efforts with respect to developing vehicle-to-grid (V2G) management technologies. Simultaneously, it is necessary to create a business ecosystem centered on V2G operating platforms, constituting a process to which various players can contribute and achieve mutually beneficial results. It is also essential to formulate top-level strategic plans across industries and organizations, develop an electricity-trading mechanism as soon as possible, and promote the implementation of technical standards related to EV energy storage. Full article
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Other

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14 pages, 1994 KiB  
Systematic Review
Public Transport Decarbonization: An Exploratory Approach to Bus Electrification
by Paulo J. G. Ribeiro, Gabriel Dias and José F. G. Mendes
World Electr. Veh. J. 2024, 15(3), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj15030081 - 22 Feb 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2750
Abstract
In 2020, only 0.9% of buses running in European Union countries were electric, with 93.5% still being diesel-powered. The Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy set out by the European Commission targets a reduction of at least 55% in greenhouse gas emissions by 2023 [...] Read more.
In 2020, only 0.9% of buses running in European Union countries were electric, with 93.5% still being diesel-powered. The Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy set out by the European Commission targets a reduction of at least 55% in greenhouse gas emissions by 2023 and the achievement of climate neutrality by 2050. These targets will only be met by a shift to sustainable mobility, which comprises the introduction of electric vehicles in cities and the adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEV) for urban public transport. Thus, a literature review on “electrification of bus fleets” was conducted, focusing on the practices adopted for the replacement of polluting buses with electric-powered ones. A total of 62 documents were included in the final investigation, and their results were used to conduct a SWOT analysis. It is possible to conclude that BEBs are an important asset for cities to decarbonize the transport sector and that they are more cost-effective than diesel buses. On the other hand, some attention needs to be given to the generation of energy that will feed the charging of batteries because the use of fossil fuel energy sources can jeopardize the environmental benefits of BEBs. Full article
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