Redesigning European Public Transport: Impact of New Battery Technologies in the Design of Electric Bus Fleets

At the COP21, 195 countries adopted the first-ever universal, legally binding global climate deal showing universal concern for global warming. Worldwide, carbon dioxide emissions from fuel combustion rose by 49% between 1990 and 2011. Moreover, urban mobility is set to double by 2025. Public transport consumes 3.4 times less energy per passenger kilometer than automobiles. Therefore, an increase in the share of public transport and a technological shift are key to meet EU 2050 objective to decarbonize the transport sector. In a Well-to-Wheels perspective, electric vehicles emit less nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter than internal combustion engine vehicles. Thus, promotion of electric buses in public transit fleets is highly valued. Multiple factors must be considered to achieve both objectives of low cost and energy efficiency. Electric bus performance depends on driving distance, road orography… recharging infrastructure depends on number/length of bus stops, electric grid characteristics and electric tariffs. On-board batteries must adapt to demanding cycling profiles that can severely impact their performance and lifespan. New battery technologies allow for improved electric buses design and recharging strategies. However, technical information about the relationship between battery technologies and electric bus performance is limited. In this paper, strengths and weaknesses of different batteries and charging technologies are presented when used in battery electric buses projects implemented in European. Lessons learned may help to redesign European public transport.