Combination of Static and Dynamic Charging Facilities for Road Freight Electrification

Abstract

The study aims to develop an optimization model that determines the optimal configuration of dynamic Electric Road Systems (ERS) and static charging infrastructure for heavy-duty electric trucks. By considering varying levels of ERS adoption, the model seeks to minimize total infrastructure and operational costs while maximizing demand coverage along key transport routes. The research uses a bi-level optimization model: the upper level addresses government decisions on infrastructure placement to minimize infrastructure costs, while the lower level focuses on user routing to minimize transportation expenses. The model was applied to the Netherlands as a case study, optimizing the placement of ERS and static chargers based on traffic patterns and user behavior. Key findings indicate that ERS and static chargers are complementary, with ERS proving more cost-effective on high-traffic routes, reducing battery size and eliminating charging downtime. In low-traffic areas, static chargers provide essential infrastructure support. The model demonstrated that an integrated charging network could lead to cost savings of up to 25%. The study concludes that a combined ERS-static charging infrastructure is the a cost-efficient approach for electrifying freight transport, offering both economic and environmental benefits .