Investigators:
Dr. Randall L. Guensler, Georgia Tech
Dr. Michael O. Rodgers, Georgia Tech
Yingping Zhao, Ph.D. Student, Georgia Tech
Project Overview:
Electric and fuel cell buses have been in the market for decades and are at Technology Readiness Level 7; ready for full-scale validation in relevant environments. In assessing the cost effectiveness of adopting new vehicle technologies into a transit fleet, agencies must consider the total lifecycle cost of vehicle ownership, not just energy and emissions savings. Total cost of owning a transit fleet varies depending on the fleet composition, facility construction type, equipment purchase and maintenance frequency, operating cost, etc. Recent literature for several electric and fuel cell bus demonstration projects is being assessed so that enhanced operating cost data can be integrated into the transit fuel and emissions calculator. Component cost updates focus primarily on new powertrain types. For example, the charging facility type and battery capacity for electric buses significantly affects charge duration (which might affect the transit schedule), capital costs, installation fees, and facility and equipment maintenance fees. An updated electrical cost profile is being developed so that users can better-assess battery and charging options. This project is also assessing the sensitivity of total ownership costs for different vehicles so that the transit agency can get a better idea about which cost elements will have the largest potential impacts.