Graphic: From Charging Technology for Battery Electric Buses
Client Question:
Which battery electric bus (BEB) charging infrastructure option is a good fit for our needs?
Civic Sphere worked with the National Center for Applied Transit Technology’s office in Washington D.C. in 2023, creating the “Selecting Battery Electric Bus Charging Infrastructure” worksheet to be added online to its Tech University platform during 2023/24.
The answer? Follow the 3 steps laid out in the form of 3 worksheet exercises. Since “depot” charging is nearly always a possibility, the exercises focus on “on-route” charging requirements which are more difficult to meet. First, users are guided through a decision tree to clarify whether on-route charging is generally suitable based on their circumstances. Second, users are guided through another decision tree to further explore whether on-route charging is viable based on their specific limitations. Third, users are guided through a final decision tree to pinpoint which charging interface (pantograph or wireless) is the best option for their on-route charging locations. In addition, the worksheet introduction explains the broader decision-making process for BEB transitions, charging location options (depot vs. on-route), charging interface options (plug-in vs. pantograph vs. wireless), and other key points to consider (energy grid capacity, costs, etc.).
Which battery electric bus (BEB) charging infrastructure option is a good fit for our needs?
Civic Sphere worked with the National Center for Applied Transit Technology’s office in Washington D.C. in 2023, creating the “Selecting Battery Electric Bus Charging Infrastructure” worksheet to be added online to its Tech University platform during 2023/24.
The answer? Follow the 3 steps laid out in the form of 3 worksheet exercises. Since “depot” charging is nearly always a possibility, the exercises focus on “on-route” charging requirements which are more difficult to meet. First, users are guided through a decision tree to clarify whether on-route charging is generally suitable based on their circumstances. Second, users are guided through another decision tree to further explore whether on-route charging is viable based on their specific limitations. Third, users are guided through a final decision tree to pinpoint which charging interface (pantograph or wireless) is the best option for their on-route charging locations. In addition, the worksheet introduction explains the broader decision-making process for BEB transitions, charging location options (depot vs. on-route), charging interface options (plug-in vs. pantograph vs. wireless), and other key points to consider (energy grid capacity, costs, etc.).
